The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) has revealed significant progress in the fight against online child exploitation through Project Steel, a national operation targeting individuals who prey on children. This initiative, part of the Provincial Internet Child Exploitation Strategy, has led to the identification of 31 victims and the safeguarding of 20 children.
The operation resulted in 40 arrests, 151 charges, and the seizure of 686 electronic devices. Among those arrested was a repeat offender previously convicted of sexual offenses, who was found to have victimized several children online.
Police emphasize the importance of collaboration in tackling online child exploitation. The Provincial Internet Child Exploitation Strategy involves law enforcement, parents, educators, technology providers, and child advocacy organizations. These groups are encouraged to remain vigilant and work together to prevent exploitation.
Victim support services, including assistance from Victim Services of Stormont, Dundas, Glengarry, and Akwesasne, were provided during the investigation. For more information on protecting children, the public is urged to visit the Canadian Centre for Child Protection or cybertip.ca.
Detective Staff Sergeant Tim Brown, the lead of the Provincial Internet Child Exploitation Strategy, emphasized the ongoing commitment to protecting children, stating, “We will not stop. We will continue to innovate, investigate, and work with our partners to ensure there is no refuge for those who exploit children.”
If you have any information about child exploitation or online abuse, contact local police or report to cybertip.ca. For immediate danger, dial 9-1-1.