The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) have announced the results of a child sexual exploitation investigation called Project Maverick, which involved a collaborative effort with over 20 police services across the province. During the investigation, which took place from March 31 to April 11, officers posed as children online to lure predators and identify individuals engaged in such activities.
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As a result, 36 men have been charged with a total of 128 criminal offences. The accused range in age from 18 to 73, with one of them being listed on the national sex offender registry. The charges include luring, making sexually explicit material available to a child, and making arrangements to commit a sexual offence against a child.
The operation led to the rescue of nine real child victims, who are now safe and receiving support from authorities. However, the OPP has stated that there are still 51 active investigations stemming from this operation, indicating that the work to combat child sexual exploitation continues.
The police are urging the public to report any suspicious behavior and for parents to educate their children on internet safety and the risks of online interactions with strangers. The investigation highlights the ongoing issue of child sexual exploitation and the efforts of law enforcement to protect vulnerable young