(POWASSAN, ON) - In a significant development, the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) apprehended a Powassan resident after an extensive investigation into child sexual exploitation.
The OPP Child Sexual Exploitation Unit, in collaboration with the Digital Forensics Unit, executed a search warrant at a residence in Powassan, leading to the seizure of several electronic devices.
As a result of the investigation, 32-year-old Jeffrey BELANGER now faces charges under the Criminal Code, including:
- Possession of Child Pornography - two counts (section 163.1(4))
- Making Child Pornography Available - two counts (section 163.1(3))
- Make Child Pornography (section 163.1(2))
BELANGER is slated to appear for a bail hearing at the Ontario Court of Justice in North Bay on February 20, 2024.
Highlighting the vulnerability of children in society, law enforcement emphasizes the grave impact of child sexual abuse, where many victims are too young to articulate their experiences. The circulation of images or videos depicting such abuse further victimizes these children.
The OPP says it pledges to aggressively identify and pursue individuals exploiting technology for child exploitation. In light of this, parents are urged to take a proactive role in safeguarding their children from online threats by engaging in conversations about internet safety. Resources for parents can be found at cybertip.ca or protectchildren.ca.
Individuals with information regarding internet child exploitation who wish to remain anonymous are encouraged to contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS) or ontariocrimestoppers.ca. Reports can also be made through cybertip.ca.