Northwestern Ontario man remanded on child porn charges

A man typing on a backlit computer keyboard. (File photo/Bloomberg Creative Photos/Bloomberg Creative)

A 70-year-old man from Shuniah Township, in northwestern Ontario, is in custody facing child pornography charges following an investigation by the Thunder Bay Police Service.

The police force’s Cyber Crime Unit began its investigation in May 2025 after receiving information that “material consistent with” child sexual abuse and exploitation material had been possessed.

Officers executed a search warrant at a Lakeshore Drive address on Sept 4.

“Police seized multiple electronic devices,” police said in a news release Wednesday.

The accused was arrested on Tuesday. He has been charged with possession of child pornography and accessing child pornography.

He appeared in court and has been remanded into custody with a future appearance 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. Joel Manherz at [phone] ext. 4115 or contact Crime Stoppers anonymously.

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

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