WALKERTON – A Walkerton resident is facing multiple child pornography charges following an investigation by the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP).
On Aug. 24, members of the OPP Child Sexual Exploitation Unit, Digital Forensics Unit and South Bruce OPP executed a search warrant at a home in Walkerton following an online child sexual exploitation investigation. According to a press release from the OPP, police seized several electronic devices during the search.
Police arrested 27-year-old Anish S. Ranadive. The accused is charged with the following under the Criminal Code:
- two counts of possession of child pornography, as per section 163.1(4); and
- make available child pornography, as per section 163.1(3).
Ranadive is scheduled to appear in a bail hearing today (Aug. 24).
“Children are our most valuable and precious members of society. Many victims of child sexual abuse are so young that they cannot tell their story. Every time an image or video depicting that abuse is shared, that child is re-victimized. Members of the OPP Child Sexual Exploitation Unit will continue to pursue individuals who exploit children on the internet,” officials stated in a press release.
Anyone wanting to make a difference is encouraged to go to www.protectchildren.ca and download the “Child Sexual Abuse- It Is Your Business” brochure from the Canadian Center for Child Protection. Police say this is an important first step that can save a child.
Parents are reminded to take a proactive approach to help protect their children from online sexual exploitation by speaking with their children regarding internet safety. Parents and anyone interested in protecting children can find resources to assist them at www.cybertip.ca.
