Three charged in northwestern Ont. child porn investigation

A hand is shown operating a computer mouse with a screen full of blurred images shown on the monitor in the background. (File photo/CTV News)

A months-long cybercrime investigation has resulted in child pornography charges against three Thunder Bay residents.

The Thunder Bay Police Service’s cyber crime unit began investigating the distribution and accessing of child pornography from the city in March.

The investigation led to a search warrant being executed on the city’s north end in June.

“During the search multiple electronic devices were seized,” police said in a news release Wednesday.

“Following an examination of the devices, three suspects were identified in the home that was searched.”

Officers subsequently requested that the suspects turn themselves in.

On Monday, all three suspects surrendered as requested and were taken into custody.

3 face charges

As a result, a 28-year-old and a 46-year-old man are each charged with accessing child pornography and possessing child pornography. A 19-year-old man was also charged with accessing child pornography.

All of the accused have been released from custody with future court dates.

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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