Two men from the Quinte Region are among dozens who were charged in an OPP-led investigation into child exploitation.
Through the Provincial Strategy to Protect Children from Sexual Abuse and Exploitation on the Internet (Provincial Internet Child Exploitation Strategy), a joint initiative was launched called PROJECT TIME involving the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) and 25 other police services. A total of 63 individuals were charged and 51 victims were identified in the fight against online child exploitation.
Among the people charged –
45-year-old WILLIAM PAUL O’BRIEN of Belleville faces charges of
• Possession of Child Sexual Abuse & Exploitation Material x2
• Distribution of Child Sexual Abuse & Exploitation Material x2
• Making Child Sexual Abuse & Exploitation Material x2
• Careless Storage of a firearm
• Unauthorized Possession of a Restricted Weapon
• Knowledge of possession of an unauthorized firearm
• Possession of a prohibited or restricted firearm with
ammunition
37-year-old KEVAN WHALEN of Quinte West faces charges of
• Possession of Child Sexual Abuse & Exploitation Material x2
• Accessing Child Sexual Abuse & Exploitation Material
Four people from Kingston were also charged in the investigation.
As part of Project Time, a coordinated provincial effort to identify and apprehend those who prey on children, investigators targeted individuals making, possessing and distributing child sexual abuse material. Victims were also identified and safeguarded, with appropriate support provided to those impacted.
Project Time results include:
- 51 victims identified
- 63 individuals arrested
- 213 charges laid
- 814 electronic devices seized
- 264 criminal investigations conducted
- 154 ongoing investigations
- Two accused were in a position of trust and authority in their communities
- Eight accused were repeat offenders
Members of the Provincial Internet Child Exploitation Strategy recognize that law enforcement cannot combat these crimes alone. Parents, educators, child advocacy organizations, government and technology providers are essential in keeping children safe.
Further details relating to the accused and their respective charges are available in the attached Addendum of Charged Persons. Some of the accused cannot be identified due to a court-issued publication ban.
The Provincial Internet Child Exploitation Strategy police partners have noted a significant rise in reports of online child sexual exploitation and child sexual abuse material in recent years. To learn how to keep children safe, visit Canadian Centre for Child Protection.
Anyone with any information related to child sexual exploitation should contact their local police or report it to cybertip.ca.
QUOTE
“Project Time is a testament to the dedication and commitment of law enforcement professionals across Ontario and Canada to protect children from exploitation. The results of this operation demonstrate the power of collaboration, the strength of the Provincial Internet Child Exploitation Strategy and the relentless pursuit of those who prey on the most vulnerable.”
– OPP Detective Staff Sergeant Tara Clark, Provincial Internet Child Exploitation Strategy Lead
