Resident alleges human trafficking and drug activity at 165 Delaware Street; council pledges follow-up

A resident who identified herself as Fridhi Priano addressed the Tonawanda Common Council on Aug. 5, saying she and neighbors have repeatedly witnessed drug activity and alleged human trafficking at a rental property on 165 Delaware Street.

"I witnessed that the police did not protect the victim because this is human trafficking," Priano said, describing multiple disturbances and saying residents had contacted county and state authorities. She told the council that one woman who was left at 49 Scott Street reported being a "*** slave" and that the neighborhood has seen frequent car visits to the property.

Councilmembers acknowledged receipt of resident emails and said they would follow up. Chris Fisher said he had received several messages and planned to forward them to appropriate offices; the mayor and council members said they had discussed nuisance-law options with the city attorney and would work with the police chief to determine enforcement steps.

The complaint in the meeting was an allegation by a private citizen; the council did not record any formal enforcement action or charges during the meeting. Council members called for follow-up: staff were asked to check police logs in greater detail and to discuss next steps with the police chief and city attorney.

What the council said it will do next: review police records, discuss nuisance-law options with the city attorney and report back to the council.

Note: The allegation was raised during public comment and remains an allegation in this record; no adjudication, arrest record or formal legal finding was presented at the meeting.