Members of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) Child Sexual Exploitation Unit, Digital Forensics and Russell County OPP Detachment arrested and charged a Russell County resident following a lengthy online child sexual exploitation investigation.

On October 29, 2020, police executed a search warrant at a home in the town of Rockland and seized several electronic exhibits for further examination and review.  As a result of this investigation, a 54-year-old man was arrested and charged on June 29, 2021, with the following charges;

  • Possession of Child Pornography – one count, contrary to section 163.1(4.1) of the criminal Code.
  • Accessing Child Pornography – one count, contrary to section 163.1(3) of the Criminal Code.
  • Making Available Child Pornography – one count, contrary to section 163.1(3) of the Criminal Code.

The accused was released from custody following a bail hearing and is next scheduled to appear in court on July 27, 2021, at the Ontario Court of Justice in L’Orignal, Ontario.

Children are our most valuable and precious members of society. Many victims of child sexual abuse are so young that they cannot tell their story. Every time an image or video depicting that abuse is shared, that child is re-victimized. Members of the OPP Child Sexual Exploitation Unit will continue to pursue individuals who exploit children on the Internet.

Anyone wanting to make a difference is encouraged to go to www.protectchildren.ca and download the “Child Sexual Abuse-It Is Your Business” brochure from the Canadian Center for Child Protection. This is an important first step that can save a child.

Parents are reminded to take a proactive approach to help protect their children from online sexual exploitation by speaking with their children regarding internet safety. Parents and anyone interested in protecting children can find resources to assist them at www.cybertip.ca.

Police are asking anyone who may have information regarding this investigation or if you have information regarding internet child exploitation, please contact the OPP at 1-888-310-1122.