CHAT News File Photo

By Chris Brown

Several victims

Child porn charges laid after investigation by Bassano RCMP

Apr 30, 2021 | 2:01 PM

BASSANO, AB – A Newell County man has been arrested and is facing numerous charges following a child pornography investigation.

RCMP in Bassano say they began an investigation after receiving information on March 8 about an adult male distributing pornographic images to a female youth.

The investigation identified several victims, both male and female between the ages of 14 and 16 years old.

The 18-year-old man is facing numerous charges including eight counts of distribution of and possession of child pornography, child luring and two counts of distribution of sexually explicit material to person under 16 years of age.

RCMP say the identity of the accused will not be released to protect the identity and privacy of the under-aged victims. He has had a bail hearing, was released with conditions and will appear in Brooks Provincial Court on May 5.

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The incident remains under investigation and no further details will be provided as these matters are before the courts, say RCMP.

The investigation led by Bassano RCMP and supported by Brooks RCMP General Investigation Section and the Alberta Law Enforcement Response Team Internet Child Exploitation unit (ALERT ICE).

“Bassano RCMP has been proactive in engaging with all its areas schools regarding internet safety before this incident was reported. In response to this occurrence, we have held another virtual session with our schools and will continue this in future,” says Cpl. Sebastian Andrews, Bassano RCMP Detachment Commander. “We urge parents to monitor their children’s online activity and to access the resources at cybertip.ca for information and resources on how to help keep children safe online.”

Anyone with information about online child exploitation offences is encouraged to contact Bassano RCMP at 403-641-3677, your local police or cybertip.ca. If you wish to remain anonymous, you can contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS), online at .P3Tips.com or by using the “P3 Tips” app available through the Apple App or Google Play Store.