A 46-year-old suspect in Cochrane, Ont., has been charged with numerous offences following an investigation that began this spring as an intimate partner violence case. Ontario Provincial Police said the case turned into an investigation of historic crimes involving child exploitation. The probe began May 17 into “ongoing assaults involving a former intimate partner,” police said in a news release Aug. 12. “The investigation revealed allegations spanning several years, including incidents that began when the victim was a youth.” Long list of charges The suspect has since been charged with sexual exploitation, luring a child under 18 using a computer, forcible confinement, criminal harassment (repeatedly follow, relatedly communicate with, watch and beset, threatening conduct), voyeurism, sexual interference, spousal assault, aggravated assault and three counts of sexual assault. “The accused was held for a bail hearing and was subsequently released to appear before the Ontario Court of Justice in Cochrane on a later date,” police said. “As the investigation continued, investigators received additional evidence relating to the historical abuse allegations. A search warrant was executed on a digital storage device and the contents were analyzed by the OPP digital forensic unit.” On July 28, the same suspect was charged with making, printing, publishing or possessing child pornography for the purpose of publication and possession of child pornography. “If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic abuse, help and support are available,” police said. “You are not alone.” Contact the Cochrane District Victim Services 24-hour crisis line at 1-877-264-4208 for assistance and guidance. In emergencies, call 911 immediately.
