Wikwemikong Tribal Police have charged a 21-year-old man from Espanola with luring someone under the age of 16, sexual assault and other offences. Police rescued the victim during a traffic stop around 1:22 a.m. after she was reported missing. “With video footage provided by Wikwemikong Security and Surveillance, (police) stopped a vehicle entering the community,” police said in a news release. “The youth was located safely inside the vehicle and the driver was arrested.” Charges include possession of child sexual abuse and exploitation material, sexual assault, luring a person under the age of 16 using telecommunication, sexual interference and invitation to sexual touching. Accused is in custody The accused is being held in custody ahead of a bail hearing. Police obtained a search warrant for a residence in Espanola with the help of the Ontario Provincial Police, where “several exhibits were located and seized.” “These allegations are extremely serious and involve the exploitation of a young person,” police chief Ron Gignac said in the news release. “The safety and well-being of our youth remain a top priority for WTPS. We recognize the significant harm that child sexual abuse and online luring can cause to victims, families, and the community. We commend the officers and our partner agencies for their swift actions in safely locating the youth.” Anyone with information on the investigation – or who has also been victimized by the accused – is urged to call police at 705-370-3141. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477). Parents, guardians cautioned “The Wikwemikong Tribal Police Service is reminding parents, guardians, and youth to exercise caution when communicating with individuals online,” police said. “Offenders may use social media platforms, messaging applications, gaming communities, and other online forums to build trust with young people before attempting to exploit them.” Anyone affected by sexual assault is encouraged to seek support. Help is available from Manitoulin Northshore Victim Services at 705-370-3378 or toll-free at 1-866-392-7733. Talk4Healing, at 1-855-554-HEAL (4325), offers culturally grounded support for Indigenous women. Kids Help Phone can be reached at 1-800-668-6868 or text CONNECT to 686868. The Ontario Victim Support Line is 1-888-579-2888. Call or text 211 for information about local community, counselling and crisis support services.
