A province-wide investigation targeting online child sexual exploitation has resulted in the arrest of 63 people, the identification of 51 child victims and more than 200 criminal charges.
The Ontario Provincial Police announced the results of Project Time on Thursday, a coordinated operation conducted through Ontario’s Provincial Strategy to Protect Children from Sexual Abuse and Exploitation on the Internet.
Investigators from the OPP and 25 municipal police services targeted individuals involved in the making, possession and distribution of child sexual abuse material.
During the operation, police laid 213 criminal charges, seized 814 electronic devices, conducted 264 criminal investigations and have 154 investigations that remain ongoing.
Police said two of the accused held positions of trust and authority within their communities, while eight were repeat offenders.
In addition to arresting suspects, investigators identified and safeguarded 51 child victims, ensuring they received appropriate support services.
“Project Time is a testament to the dedication and commitment of law enforcement professionals across Ontario and Canada to protect children from exploitation,” said OPP Detective Staff Sergeant Tara Clark, Provincial Internet Child Exploitation Strategy Lead.
“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.”
Police say reports of online child sexual exploitation and child sexual abuse material have increased significantly in recent years.
Officials stress that protecting children requires more than police action, saying parents, educators, child advocacy organizations, government agencies and technology providers all play an important role in preventing online exploitation.
The Provincial Internet Child Exploitation Strategy is made up of the OPP Child Sexual Exploitation Unit, 25 municipal police services, the Ministry of the Attorney General, the Ministry of the Solicitor General and victim service partners across Ontario.
Authorities are encouraging anyone with information about child sexual exploitation to contact their local police service or report it anonymously through Cybertip.ca.
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
