A Bradford West Gwillimbury resident has been charged following a prolonged investigation into online child sexual exploitation, Ontario Provincial Police say.
On Dec. 4, a search warrant was executed at a residence in Bradford, and a quantity of electronic devices was seized following an investigation conducted by the OPP's Child Sexual Exploitation Unit, with the assistance of OPP Digital Forensics and Nottawasaga OPP.
As a result, Bradford resident Zi Jian Ken Liu, 19, was arrested and charged with two counts of possession of child pornography, contrary to section 163.1(4) of the Criminal Code.
The accused was released from custody following a bail hearing and is scheduled to appear before the Ontario Court of Justice in Bradford on Jan. 9.
"Protecting children from sexual exploitation is paramount," said OPP Det. Staff Sgt. Chris Barkey. "It's critical that members of law enforcement and the communities they serve work together to educate our children about safe internet practices, while actively working to identify individuals who seek to cause harm. Through collective efforts, we can foster an online environment where children are safe to explore, learn, and grow."
Many child sexual-abuse victims are so young 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 department said in a media release.
Parents are reminded to speak with their children regarding internet safety, and can find resources at protectchildren.ca.
If you have information regarding online child exploitation and want to provide information anonymously, contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or ontariocrimestoppers.ca. Information can also be reported through cybertip.ca.
