VAN NUYS — The Los Angeles Police Department’s Van Nuys Division on Friday, March 1, circulated a photo of a human trafficking suspect who frequents the Hollywood and North Hollywood areas and asked for the public’s help in locating him and possible victims.

Vice detectives began an investigation after a woman about 20 years old walked into the Van Nuys station at around 8 p.m. on Feb. 20 to report she had been a victim of human trafficking, according to the LAPD.

She said the suspect had loaned her some money and alleged he forced her into prostitution to repay the loan.

“The suspect knew the victim’s financial struggles and coerced her to continue to work as a prostitute,” according to an LAPD statement. “When she refused, the suspect escalated his aggression, causing the victim to fear for her safety.”

The suspect was described as black, 27 years old and 5 feet, 10 inches tall, weighing about 165 pounds. He has black hair styled in long dreads, brown eyes and tattoos on both arms, according to the LAPD.

Anyone with information about the suspect was asked to call the LAPD’s Van Nuys station at (818) 374-9500.

Human trafficking victims are urged to call Officer Smith at (818) 374-0073. During non-business hours or on weekends, calls should be directed to 1-877-LAPD-24-7.

Anyone wishing to remain anonymous should call LA Regional Crime Stoppers at (800) 222-TIPS or go directly to www.lacrimestoppers.org.