The OPP says it has laid multiple child sexual exploitation charges across Ontario.
In a span of five days, seven warrants were executed across Ontario and five people charged with over 22 criminal code offences.
"These warrants were conducted between May 4 and 8 and represent an example of the ongoing sexual interest in children across Ontario," says an OPP release. "Although these investigations are not related, they highlight that offenders are of all age groups, employment, and social-economical classes.
"Child exploitation is everyone's business. Parents and caregivers must be aware that even during a pandemic, the exploitation of children does not stop. It stands to reason that with more children isolating at home and more offenders also self-isolating there will be increase risk that our children will cross the online path of someone with ill intent. This is a great time to have a conversation with your children about online risks."
Police have charged:
Tanner Raymond, 22, of Quinte West.
- Possession of child pornography
- Making available child pornography
Raymond was held for a bail hearing.
Simon Yalkezian, 33, of Cobourg:
- Five counts of making available child pornography
- Accessing child pornography
- Possession of child pornography
He was held for a bail hearing.
James Aldworth, 25, of Cobourg,
- Luring a Child (four counts),
- Transmit Explicit Material to a Child, and with
- Indecent Exposure to a Child.
Aldworth was held for a bail hearing.
A 42-year-old woman of Trenton who can not be named to protect the identity of the victim.
- Making child pornography
- Two counts of possession of child pornography
She was held for a bail hearing.
A 17-year-old male from Haldimand, Ontario:
- Voyeurism,
- Making available child pornography,
- Possession of child pornography
- Distribute intimate images without consent.
He was released to his parents and cannot be named under the Youth Criminal Justice Act provision.
Child exploitation is everyone's business. Parents and caregivers must be aware that even during a pandemic, the exploitation of children does not stop. It stands to reason that with more children isolating at home and more offenders also self-isolating there will be increase risk that our children will cross the online path of someone with ill intent. This is a great time to have a conversation with your children about online risks.
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
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. If wish to remain anonymous you can contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS) or www.ontariocrimestoppers.ca.
