63 charged in child sexual abuse and exploitation on the Internet
Police partners have noted a significant rise in reports of online child sexual exploitation and child sexual abuse material in recent years
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A 33-year-old Redbridge man and a 22-year-old North Bay man are among 63 individuals charged in a provincial investigation in child sexual abuse and exploitation on the Internet. Some of the accused cannot be identified due to a court-issued publication ban.
Project Time, is a joint initiative between the Ontario Provincial Police and 25 police services, including North Bay Police Service.
Officers charged 63 individuals and 51 victims were identified in the fight against online child exploitation.
“As part of Project Time, a coordinated provincial effort to identify and apprehend those who prey on children, investigators targeted individuals making, possessing and distributing child sexual abuse material. Victims were also identified and safeguarded, with appropriate support provided to those impacted,” according to OPP.
Project Time results include:
- 51 victims identified
- 63 individuals arrested
- 213 charges laid
- 814 electronic devices seized
- 264 criminal investigations conducted
- 154 ongoing investigations
- Two accused were in a position of trust and authority in their communities
- Eight accused were repeat offenders
“Project Time is a testament to the dedication and commitment of law enforcement professionals across Ontario and Canada to protect children from exploitation,” stated OPP Detective Staff Sergeant Tara Clark, Provincial Internet Child Exploitation Strategy Lead. “The results of this operation demonstrate the power of collaboration, the strength of the Provincial Internet Child Exploitation Strategy and the relentless pursuit of those who prey on the most vulnerable.”
“Members of the Provincial Internet Child Exploitation Strategy recognize that law enforcement cannot combat these crimes alone. Parents, educators, child advocacy organizations, government and technology providers are essential in keeping children safe,” according to OPP.
The Provincial Internet Child Exploitation Strategy police partners have noted a significant rise in reports of online child sexual exploitation and child sexual abuse material in recent years.
To learn how to keep children safe, visit Canadian Centre for Child Protection.
Anyone with any information related to child sexual exploitation should contact their local police or report it to cybertip.ca.
