(PRINCE EDWARD COUNTY, ON) – Members of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) Child Sexual Exploitation Unit, Digital Forensics Unit and Prince Edward County OPP have arrested and charged a Town of Wellington resident following an child sexual exploitation investigation.
On August 26, 2021, police executed a search warrant at a home in the Town of Wellington and seized several electronic devices. As a result of this investigation, Andrew MORTON, 51 years old, was arrested and charged with:
One count of possession of child pornography, as per section 163.1(4) of the Criminal Code;
One count of accessing child pornography as per section 163.1 (4.1) of the Criminal code.
The accused was held for a bail hearing.
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.
“Child sexual exploitation is a devastating reality in our communities. Every person held accountable is a step towards fighting this horrific act”, Detective Superintendent Tina Chalk of Criminal Investigation Services, Ontario Provincial Police.
Anyone wanting to make a difference is encouraged to go to www.protectchildren.ca and download the “Child Sexual Abuse- It Is Your Business” brochure from the Cana dian Center for Child Protection. This is an important first step that can save a child.
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. Parents and anyone interested in protecting children can find resources to assist them at www.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 . If wish to remain anonymous you can contact Crime Stoppers at (TIPS) or 1-800-222-8477
Author: Pete Fisher
Has been a photojournalist for over 30-years and have been honoured to win numerous awards for photography and writing over the years. Best selling author for the book Highway of Heroes - True Patriot Love
