NEWS RELEASE
ONTARIO PROVINCIAL POLICE
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A prolonged investigation into online child sexual exploitation has resulted in a St. Marys resident facing charges.
As a result of the investigation conducted by the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) Child Sexual Exploitation Unit (CSEU), with the assistance of OPP Digital Forensics, Perth County OPP and Stratford Police Service, a search warrant was executed at a residence in St. Marys on December 5, 2024, and a quantity of electronic devices was seized.
As a result, Brendan Joseph Rinn, 22 years old of St. Marys, was arrested and charged with the following Criminal Code offences:
- Non-consensual distribution of an intimate image, section 162.1(1)
- Making child pornography, section 163.1(2)
- Making available child pornography, section 163.1(3)
The accused was released from custody following a bail hearing and is scheduled to appear before the Ontario Court of Justice in Stratford on January 13, 2025.
"Ensuring the safety of our children from online sexual exploitation is of utmost importance. Law enforcement and community members must collaborate to teach children about safe internet usage and diligently identify those who pose a threat. By working together, we can create an online space where children can safely explore, learn, and thrive." - Detective Staff Sergeant Chris Barkey, OPP CSEU.
Everyone needs to educate themselves to keep children safe and keep predators out of our real and virtual communities. Many child sexual abuse victims are so young that they cannot tell their story. Each time an image or video of their abuse is shared, it causes further harm and re-victimization to the child.
The OPP will continue to aggressively identify and pursue individuals who use technology to exploit children. Parents are reminded to take a proactive approach to help protect their children from online sexual exploitation by speaking with their children regarding internet safety. Parents can find resources to assist them at cybertip.ca or protectchildren.ca.
If you have information regarding online child exploitation and wish to provide information anonymously, you can contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or ontariocrimestoppers.ca. Information can also be reported through cybertip.ca.
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