Derek Wise was arrested on 15 charges related to human trafficking Vice reports. According to the official police report, Wise made an appearance in court on Friday (December 12).
The charges include trafficking in persons and uttering death threats. The report says that Derek Wise, whose legal name is Derek Bissue, forced a 21-year old woman to work as an exotic dancer and “an attempt to take her money resulted in police intervention.” The report also says there may be more victims.
Wise appeared in The Weeknd’s video for “King of the Fall” and has been affiliated with the Toronto singer’s XO crew. He is a member of Get Home Safe, a Toronto Hip Hop collective.
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Wise’s manager, Quincy Nanatakyi, disputes the charges in a statement:
“The investigation against Derek is both shocking and offensive. These accusations, which we take very seriously were brought to the police after Derek attempted to end an unhealthy relationship with a mentally unstable individual. Derek’s character would not allow him to commit any of the allegations he is facing.
Unfortunately, the mental health of his accuser is in question as well. During their relationship Derek was a victim of physical abuse, slanderous accusations, and was threatened that his career would be ruined by the same person who has now made these erroneous allegations. Having had to deal with these abuses before the investigation, Derek would never put anyone through the same pain he was forced to experience. Derek would like everyone to please understand that all slanderous accusations against him are completely untrue and he empathizes with ALL victims of any and every form of abuse. GHS also known as get home safe members and affiliates of Derek Bissue also known as Derek Wise do not promote any of the negative and horrendous claims brought against Derek. As a young man raised by a single mother who Derek found love and endless inspiration, he would never put himself into a situation that would cause harm to a woman. It hurts me to see my best friend and business partner in this situation. People change when they see someone close to them elevating their mindset and focusing on positive routes to success. I want all of his fans, friends and loved ones to send positive energy for this tiresome, somber, and ridiculous situation. Lastly, I want to state that due to the legal process I cannot disclose any more information at this time. Also please understand that there are two sides to every story.”
