A 22-year-old Victoria man is facing prostitution charges after police gained information about a 16-year-old girl being solicited for sex on several websites.

West Shore RCMP say they began investigating Stephen Charlie in November 2010 with the help of the Mobile Youth Services Team and uncovered evidence suggesting he was controlling the teenage girl.

On Jan. 19, Charlie was charged with assault, kidnapping, living off the avails of prostitution, and procuring, aiding, abetting or compelling a person to carry on prostitution.

"This type of crime often targets vulnerable, at risk youth with the lure of money, drugs and attention," Cpl. Kathy Rochlitz said. "But in the end, the youth is left victimized, with nothing to show for the abuse they have endured".

Charlie remains in custody on these charges as well as other unrelated ones.