Charges have been laid against two people from southern Alberta in connection to alleged child sexual exploitation. (Photo: ALERT)

By David Opinko

Two southern Albertans charged after allegedly sexually exploiting child

Dec 14, 2023 | 1:40 PM

Warning: This story may contain information that may be disturbing to some.

LETHBRIDGE, AB – A southern Alberta child has been rescued and the mother has been charged with sexual assault and other offences.

The charges stem from a complex investigation by the Alberta Law Enforcement Response Team (ALERT) Internet Child Exploitation Unit (ICE).

Officers first searched a home in Barnwell on September 19, 2023. A tip received by the National Centre for Missing and Exploited Children suggested a local person was allegedly uploading child pornography to Facebook.

A forensic analysis of computers seized from the home resulted in the seizure of nearly half a million photos and videos of child sexual abuse materials. Investigators believe the materials were unique and possibly created by the accused.

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ICE was then lead to a home in Lethbridge last month after uncovering evidence of alleged abuse.

A 34-year-old woman from Lethbridge is charged with one count each of sexual assault, sexual interference, making child pornography, distributing child pornography, and possessing child pornography.

She has been released from custody and is scheduled to appear in court in Lethbridge on December 19, 2023.

A 41-year-old man from Barnwell is charged with one count each of sexual assault, making child pornography, accessing child pornography, and possessing child pornography. He has been released from custody and is scheduled to appear in court in the new year.

It’s alleged the two suspects were in a previous relationship and sexually assaulted the child, in addition to sharing child sexual abuse materials. The child has received help from a variety of support services and Alberta Children’s services is also involved.H

Anyone with information about this case or any child exploitation situation is asked to call their local police. Tips can also be submitted anonymously to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or online at P3Tips.com