Investigators targeted individuals making, possessing and distributing child sexual abuse material<\/p>\n
A Brantford man who ran in the 2022 provincial election in Sault Ste. Marie has been arrested in connection with a joint investigation into child exploitation.<\/p>\n
Shane Pankhurst, 40, lived in Brampton and owned a restaurant when he ran for the New Blue Party in the Sault.<\/p>\n
The Ontario Provincial Police said 63 people were charged in July and 51 victims were identified.<\/p>\n
As part of Project Time, a coordinated provincial effort to identify and apprehend those who prey on children, investigators from 26 police services targeted individuals making, possessing and distributing child sexual abuse material,\u00a0the OPP said in a news release.<\/p>\n
Victims were also identified and safeguarded, with appropriate support provided to those impacted.<\/p>\n
“Project Time is a testament to the dedication and commitment of law enforcement professionals across Ontario and Canada to protect children from exploitation,” said OPP Detective Staff Sergeant Tara Clark, Provincial Internet Child Exploitation Strategy Lead.<\/p>\n
“The 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.”<\/p>\n