More than 200 charges have been laid against over 60 suspects in Ontario following an investigation into dozens of child victims, the OPP says.<\/p>\n
The arrests were made under an investigation dubbed Project Time by police, the OPP said in a release on Wednesday.<\/p>\n
The joint operation saw OPP investigators work with 25 other police services and identified 51 victims \u201cin the fight against online child exploitation,\u201d police say.<\/p>\n
Police say Project Time was part of an effort to identify and apprehend people \u201cwho prey on children,\u201d and that police targeted individuals making, possessing and distributing child sexual abuse material.<\/p>\n
The victims were safeguarded and police say they were given appropriate support.<\/p>\n
A total of 213 charges were laid against 51 suspects, including four residents of Mississauga, three from St. Catharines, and one suspect each from Brampton and Hamilton. Most of the accused were not named by police.<\/p>\n
OPP Det. Staff Sgt. Tara Clark said the arrests are \u201ca testament to the dedication and commitment of law enforcement professionals across Ontario and Canada to protect children from exploitation.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cThe results of this operation demonstrate the power of collaboration, the strength of the Provincial Internet Child Exploitation Strategy and the relentless pursuit of those who prey on the most vulnerable,\u201d Clark said in a release.<\/p>\n
Over 800 electronic devices were seized during the operation, and 154 investigations are still ongoing, police say. Investigators say two of the accused \u201cwere in a position of trust and authority in their communities,\u201d while eight are repeat offenders.<\/p>\n
Anyone with information about these investigations can contact the OPP by calling 1-888-310-1122. Anonymous tips may also be provided to Crime Stoppers by calling 1-800-222-8477 or visiting www.ontariocrimestoppers.ca<\/a>.<\/p>\n When you contact Crime Stoppers you stay anonymous, never have to testify, and could receive a $2,000 reward.<\/p>\n