A 26-year-old local man is facing multiple charges following an investigation by the Thunder Bay Police Service’s Cyber Crime Unit. Police said the probe began in July after officers received a report about a resident allegedly luring a minor. According to local police, investigators seized an electronic device as part of the evidence-gathering process on July 28. “On Sept. 2, a suspect turned themselves in to the Thunder Bay Police Service station,” police said in a news release. The accused has been charged with luring a person under 18 years of age by means of telecommunication, making sexually explicit material available to a person under 18 years of age and possession of 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. Anyone with new information about online child exploitation can also make a report through cybertip.ca.
