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The Alberta Law Enforcement Response Team has laid charges against a man from Airdrie in connection to the sexual exploitation of a three-year-old child, February 2, 2023. (Photo: ALERT)

Airdrie toddler victim of alleged sexual exploitation, charges laid

Feb 2, 2023 | 10:35 AM

AIRDRIE, AB – The Alberta Law Enforcement Response Team (ALERT) has charged a man from Airdrie in connection to the sexual exploitation of a three-year-old child.

ALERT’s Internet Child Exploitation (ICE) unit executed a search warrant at a home in Airdrie on Jan. 19.

According to a media release from the organization, investigators received information about an unknown suspect uploading suspected child sexual exploitation materials to social media platforms.

Computers and other electronic devices were seized from the home. Following an on-site preliminary analysis, ICE technicians allege that they uncovered photos that appeared to depict sexual abuse.

A spokesperson with ALERT confirmed to Lethbridge News Now that the suspect and victim are known to each other.

The name of the suspect cannot be released in order to protect the identity of the victim.

ALERT ICE Det. Erin Penner says, “It was only through a timely forensic analysis that ICE investigators became aware of this child being abused. The victim’s mother was unaware, and you can appreciate the trauma this family is experiencing right now. It was a great relief to our team to end this abuse.”

The young victim and family members are receiving support from organizations including the Luna Child and Youth Advocacy Centre as well as Airdrie Victim Services. Alberta Children’s Services is also involved.

A 26-year-old man is charged with one count each of sexual assault, sexual interference, invitation to sexual touching, making child pornography, accessing child pornography, and possession of child pornography.

Anyone who has information about this case or any other child exploitation situation is asked to contact their local police or report it anonymously to Cybertip.ca.