A Grande Prairie Peace Officer is facing charges after allegedly accessing and sharing child pornography.
A suspect was arrested on Thursday, September 21, by the Alberta Law Enforcement Response Team in connection to an investigation by the division Internet Child Exploitation unit. According to the RCMP’s National Child Exploitation Crime Centre, the accused shared the materials through social media. Sargent Kerry Shima with the ICE unit says internet child exploitation has changed the frame of reference for how we protect children and teens.
“The internet is infinite and constantly evolving; this means anyone, at any time, and anywhere, will be taking advantage of children for their own sexual gratification.”
Police seized a computer and electronic devices belonging to the accused, and ICE will continue its investigation through forensic analysis.
Director of Corporate Communication for the City of Grande Prairie Philip Cooper says in a statement the city was informed on Monday the investigation had been completed and that charges had been laid.
“This serious matter was first brought to the City’s attention in early August, following which the employee was immediately placed on administrative leave which continues today as unpaid. As the matter is now before the courts, the City of Grande Prairie has no further comment.”
32-year-old Daniel Emond was released from custody with several court-imposed conditions and is next scheduled to appear in court on October 11. Anyone with information about this investigation or any child exploitation offence is encouraged to contact local police or Crime Stoppers.
