PALMERSTON – A local man faces a dozen charges related to child exploitation, Ontario Provincial Police have announced.
Members of the OPP Child Sexual Exploitation Unit (CSEU), OPP Digital Forensics and Wellington OPP detachment executed a search warrant at a residence in Palmerston on May 12, after receiving information from law enforcement counterparts in the United States.
As a result, 24-year old Samuel Paul Tremblay was arrested and charged with 12 criminal charges related to child exploitation:
- Luring a Child – three counts;
- Distribution of Child Pornography – two counts;
- Possession of Child Pornography;
- Making Child Pornography;
- Criminal Harassment;
- Extortion;
- Sending Sexually Explicit Material to a Child;
- Indecent Exposure to a child under 16 years of age – two counts.
Police seized digital devices for further examination.
The accused was held for a bail hearing in the Ontario Court of Justice in Guelph.
“The dedication and collaboration amongst law enforcement agencies across North America, is yet another example of how investigators work closely to ensure ‘Every Child Matters Everywhere,’” states a May 13 press release from the OPP CSEU.
Internet child exploitation investigators from across the globe strive to keep children safe and those intent on their exploitation, held accountable, the release states.
“This exemplifies the borderless nature of this type of sexual exploitation,” says Detective Constable Tara Clark of the OPP CSEU. “Offenders that feel safe reaching out to children across the internet should be on notice – you very well may be next.”
Police encourage anyone wanting to make a difference in the fight against the sexual exploitation of children, to go to www.protectchildren.ca and download the Child Sexual Abuse-It Is Your Business brochure from the Canadian Center for Child Protection.
“This is an important first step that can save a child,” police officials state.
“Parents are reminded to take a proactive approach to help protect their children from online sexual exploitation by speaking with their children regarding Internet safety. Parents and anyone interested in protecting children can find resources to assist them at www.cybertip.ca,” police state.
Anyone with information regarding this investigation, or with information regarding Internet child exploitation, is urged to contact the OPP. Anyone wishing to remain anonymous can contact Crime Stoppers at (TIPS) or 1-800-222-8477.
