50-year-old Ont. man faces child sexual abuse and exploitation charges

A hand is shown operating a computer mouse with a screen full of blurred images shown on the monitor in the background. (File photo/CTV News)

A 50-year-old man from Thunder Bay, Ont., is in custody facing multiple child exploitation charges after a cybercrime investigation.

Months-long investigation

The Thunder Bay Police Service said the investigation began in October following a report that a local resident was accessing and possessing child sexual abuse and exploitation material.

“The investigation led to a search warrant being executed on the city’s south end in December,” said police in a news release.

“During the search, electronic devices and print media were seized.”

Thunder Bay police said a suspect was also taken into custody during the search.

Multiple charges laid

As a result, a 50-year-old man is facing charges for accessing, possessing and making child sexual abuse and exploitation material.

The accused remains in custody awaiting a future court date.

Police encourage vigilance, point to resources

Authorities have emphasized the role of parents and caregivers in protecting children online.

“The Thunder Bay Police Service recognizes that parents and caregivers are the frontline when it comes to protecting children on the Internet and electronic devices,” police said.

“We encourage you to remain vigilant in your efforts.”

The police service said that online safety is for children of any age and encouraged parents to speak with their children about internet safety.

Resources for parents are available at cybertip.ca or protectchildren.ca.

The release also noted resources available to individuals struggling with inappropriate urges.

The new Talking for Change program, described as the first of its kind in Canada, provides national, all-ages help for those concerned about their risk of using child sexual exploitation material or of sexually offending against a child.

There are also resources available through the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health for those who have a sexual interest in children.

Anyone with information related to this investigation is asked to call Detective Const. Brian Stewart at [phone] or contact Crime Stoppers anonymously using police reference number TB25044096.

Anyone with new information about online child exploitation can also make a report through cybertip.ca.

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