NEWS RELEASE
GUELPH POLICE SERVICE
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Waterloo Regional Police, together with Provincial Strategy partners, have 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 Sept. 18, 2018 and Oct. 1, 2018 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 males have also been charged with drug-related offences.
As the investigation continues, further charges are anticipated.
The Waterloo Regional Police Service's Special Victim's Unit and Youth Protection Unit are currently working with Family and Children's Services to assist any young people who may have been associated with the accused to ensure their wellness.
The Waterloo Regional Police Service is a member of the Ontario Provincial Strategy to Protect Children from Sexual Abuse and Exploitation on the Internet. This Project has been made possible by a grant from the Ministry of Community Safety and Correctional Services.
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