Thunder Bay man charged in child exploitation material case

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 28-year-old man faces charges following a Thunder Bay Police Service investigation into child sexual abuse material.

The force’s cyber crime unit began the investigation on July 21, 2025, after receiving a tip from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children.

The tip led officers to execute a search warrant at a home on the city’s south end on Nov. 28, 2025.

“Several electronic devices were seized,” police said in a news release.

The investigation has resulted in charges against a local man for possession of child sexual abuse and exploitation material and accessing child sexual abuse and exploitation material.

The accused has been released from custody and is scheduled to appear in court at a future 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 1-807-684-1200 ext. 4115 or contact Crime Stoppers anonymously using police reference number TB25028861.

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

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