Woolwich locals part of child-porn sweep that see 10 arrested

WATERLOO REGIONAL POLICE, TOGETHER with Provincial Strategy partners, last week arrested 10 people in connection to an ongoing investigation into the illegal distribution and possession of child exploitation material.

The investigation, conducted by the Waterloo Regional Police Service’s Cybercrime Unit, included the execution of 12 search warrants at residences and vehicles throughout Waterloo Region, including Kitchener, Waterloo, Cambridge, New Hamburg, Elmira and St. Jacobs.

The warrants were executed between September 18 and October 1 with the assistance of Ontario Provincial Strategy members, including the Ontario Provincial Police, Guelph Police Service, Durham Regional Police Service, Hamilton Police Service, Woodstock Police Service, London Police Service, Windsor Police Service, Brantford Police Service and Peel Regional Police Service.

As a result of the search warrants, officers seized three firearms, several electronic devices and illegal drugs, including cocaine and marijuana.

The accused, who are between the ages of 19 and 63, face a number of charges, including ‘possession of child pornography,’ ‘make available child pornography’ and ‘accessing child pornography.’ Two men were also charged with drug-related offences.

As the investigation continues, further charges are anticipated, police said in a release.

The Waterloo Regional Police Service’s Special Victim’s Unit and Youth Protection Unit are currently working with Family and Children’s Services of the Waterloo Region and Chid Witness Centre Child and Youth Advocate Program through the Child and Youth Advocacy Centre to assist and support any young persons who may have been associated with the accused.