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The Ontario Provincial Police announced staggering numbers in online child exploitation arrests as part of province-wide Project Aquatic.
Members of the OPP-led Provincial Strategy to Protect Children from Sexual Abuse and Exploitation on the Internet (Provincial ICE [Internet Child Exploitation] Strategy) took part in child sexual abuse investigations. The investigations began on February 19th and ended on February 29th, with investigators identifying and arresting those making, possessing and distributing child sexual abuse material. The identified victims were provided victim support, and impacted children were safeguarded.
OPP Detective Staff Sergeant Tim Brown, Provincial ICE Strategy Lead said “Child sexual exploitation is a grave crime with lasting effects. We’re dedicated to prevention and accountability. We need everyone’s support to combat this community issue. If you see something, report it. Together, we can create a safer environment for all children, ensuring their well-being and protection.”
As a result of Project Aquatic:
- 34 victims were identified
- 30 children were safeguarded
- 64 people were charged
- 348 charges were laid
- 607 electronic devices were seized
Notably, during the investigation, one individual set up a meeting with undercover investigators intending to meet with a child in real life for a sexual purpose. Another individual was in possession of approximately 21 terabytes of data containing child sexual abuse material.
Police released a list of arrested persons, including their municipality of residence and respective charges. Among them was James King a 67 year old Norfolk County man. King was charged with two counts of Possession of Child Pornography and Make Available Child Pornography.
In addition to Project Aquatic, more than 80 thousand investigations were completed between 2006 and 2023 by the Provincial ICE Strategy. Within that period, more than 29 thousand charges were laid against more than 7 thousand people. This demonstrates the scope of the issue regarding child sexual abuse material.
Members of the public are invited to learn about how to keep children safe at Canadian Centre for Child Protection or cybertip.ca.
Anyone with information regarding instances of child exploitation are asked to contact their local police. Report any instances of online child abuse to police or cybertip.ca. If a child is being harmed, call 9-1-1.