OPP lay 128 charges against 36 men in child exploitation case

36 people – including 12 local men – have been charged with a combined total of 128 criminal offences as part of a child sexual exploitation investigation.

26 police services from across Ontario took part in an investigation into child luring from March 31, to April 11, including Brantford, Halton, Hamilton, and the Niagara Regional Police.

Investigators used techniques to access online chatrooms and social media platforms to identify, locate and arrest people looking to sexually exploit children.

All of the accused are men, with ages ranging from 18 to 73 years old.

Officers said they posed as children online, and waited for offenders to make contact.

They say they were able to identify nine victims, and confirm that they are safe and have been provided support.

One of the accused arrived at a meeting location with snacks, and another person arrived with condoms and lubricant.

There are 51 investigations still ongoing.

“These results highlight a sobering reality: predators can easily reach children in online spaces,” said Det. Staff Sgt. Tim Brown with the Ontario Provincial Police. “We urge parents and guardians to remain vigilant and to talk to your children about staying safe online. Just as you wouldn’t leave your child alone in a city, don’t let them navigate the online world alone.”

Anyone with information related to child sexual exploitation is asked to contact police or to report it online at Canada’s National Tipline here.

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