Lambton County male charged in online child sexual exploitation investigation

Members of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) Child Sexual Exploitation Unit have arrested and charged a Thedford resident following an online child sexual exploitation investigation.

On December 20, 2022, police arrested and charged a 61-year-old, with making child pornography, as per section 163.1(2) of the Criminal Code.

The accused was released from custody on an undertaking with a scheduled court appearance on January 30, 2023.

Children are our most valuable 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. Members of the OPP Child Sexual Exploitation Unit will continue to pursue individuals who exploit children on the Internet.

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. Anyone wanting to make a difference is encouraged to go to 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. Other resources are available at cybertip.ca.

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 ontariocrimestoppers.ca. Reporting information may also be made on the internet through cybertip.ca.