The Ontario Provincial Police has arrested a Powassan resident following a child sexual exploitation investigation.
A search warrant was executed at a residence in Powassan by the OPP Child Sexual Exploitation Unit and the Digital Forensics Unit. Several electronic devices were seized.
As a result of the investigation, Jeffrey Belanger, 32 years of age, was arrested and charged with the following Criminal Code offences:
- Possession of child pornography - two counts
- Making child pornography available - two counts
- Make child pornography
The accused is scheduled to appear on February 20, 2024, for a first appearance in court at the Ontario Court of Justice in North Bay.
The OPP says children are our most vulnerable 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.
The OPP will continue to aggressively identify and pursue individuals who use technology to exploit children. 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 can find resources at cybertip.ca or protectchildren.ca.
If you have information regarding internet child exploitation and wish to remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS) or ontariocrimestoppers.ca. Information can also be reported through cybertip.ca.
