Provincial Police File 128 Charges Against 36 Men in Major Child Sexual Exploitation Investigation
Ontario police arrest 36 men and lay 128 charges in a major online child exploitation crackdown, rescuing nine children in a coordinated multi-agency operation.
Ontario Provincial Police have announced the results of a large-scale child sexual exploitation operation, laying a total of 128 criminal charges against 36 men following an extensive investigation that drew on the resources and collaboration of over 20 police forces from across the province.
The coordinated effort, which took place between March 31 and April 11, 2025, involved 21 separate law enforcement agencies working together to combat online child exploitation. Officers posed as minors on various internet chatrooms and social media platforms to identify individuals attempting to lure or exploit children. The suspects arrested range in age from 18 to 73 years old, including at least one individual who was already listed on the national sex offender registry.
According to officials, some of the accused displayed a willingness to physically meet with what they believed were underage victims, going so far as to bring snacks or sexual paraphernalia to prearranged locations. "Investigators utilized undercover techniques to access online environments where they could directly interact with potential offenders," police said in their announcement. These interactions led to multiple arrests and successful intervention before any harm could occur.
A crucial component of the investigation was the identification and rescue of actual victims. Police confirmed that nine real children were located during the course of the operation, all of whom have now been brought to safety and are receiving appropriate support. Authorities continue to prioritize the well-being of these children as part of ongoing efforts.
While many details and identities related to the case have been released, some individuals remain unnamed due to publication bans. Officials have provided a full list of those arrested and their charges for public review. The investigation is ongoing, with 51 additional cases still under active scrutiny as law enforcement pursues further leads.
Detective Staff Sergeant Tim Brown emphasized the persistent threat posed by online predators, urging parents and guardians to take an active role in safeguarding their children’s digital lives. "These results highlight a sobering reality: predators can easily reach children in online spaces. We urge parents and guardians to remain vigilant and to talk to your children about staying safe online. Just as you wouldn’t leave your child alone in a city, don’t let them navigate the online world alone," he stated, underscoring the importance of ongoing education and supervision in preventing future exploitation.
