Niagara police arrest Port Colborne man in child protection probe

Niagara police have arrested a man from Port Colborne in a child protection investigation.

In May, detectives became involved in an investigation related to the protection of children online. 

On Tuesday, investigators executed a search warrant at a Port Colborne home and arrested 42-year-old Joseph Franklin Crawford.

Police say they arrested Crawford for the failure to comply with a release and a prohibition order.

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Crawford was held in custody after his arrest and is set to appear for a bail hearing on Tuesday at the Robert S.K. Welch Courthouse in St. Catharines.

Detectives say they believe that the suspect has been active in an online tutor capacity for some time. 

Officers are requesting if anyone has any contact or information regarding Crawford to contact them at 905-688-4111 ext. 1009128. 

Members of the public who wish to provide information anonymously are encouraged to contact Crime Stoppers online or by calling 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS).

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