More than 200 charges have been filed against over 60 suspects in Ontario following an investigation into numerous child victims, according to the OPP.
The arrests were part of a probe called Project Time, as stated by police in a release on Wednesday.
This collaborative effort involved OPP investigators working alongside 25 other police services and identified 51 victims “in the fight against online child exploitation,” police report.
Authorities mention that Project Time aimed to locate and arrest individuals “who prey on children,” focusing on those creating, possessing, and distributing child sexual abuse material.
The victims have been protected, and police say they received appropriate support.
A total of 213 charges were brought against 51 suspects, including four residents from Mississauga, three from St. Catharines, and one suspect each from Brampton and Hamilton. Most of the accused were not named by law enforcement.
OPP Det. Staff Sgt. Tara Clark noted that these arrests are “a testament to the dedication and commitment of law enforcement professionals across Ontario and Canada to protect children from exploitation.”
“The results of this operation demonstrate the power of collaboration, the strength of the Provincial Internet Child Exploitation Strategy and the relentless pursuit of those who prey on the most vulnerable,” Clark mentioned in a release.
During this operation, over 800 electronic devices were seized, with 154 investigations still active, according to police. Investigators reported that two of those accused “were in a position of trust and authority in their communities,” while eight are repeat offenders.
If anyone has information regarding these investigations, they can contact the OPP at 1-888-310-1122. Anonymous tips may also be submitted to Crime Stoppers by calling 1-800-222-8477 or visiting www. ontariocrimestoppers. ca.
When you reach out to Crime Stoppers you stay anonymous, never have to testify, and could receive a $2,000 reward.
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