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Wasaga man arrested, charged in child exploitation investigation

Police seized numerous electronic exhibits for further examination, as well as a prohibited weapon during a search warrant on Feb. 4, 2021
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NEWS RELEASE
ONTARIO PROVINCIAL POLICE
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WASAGA BEACH – Members of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) Child Sexual Exploitation Unit, Digital Forensics and Huronia West OPP Detachment have arrested and charged a Wasaga Beach resident following an online child sexual exploitation investigation.  

On Feb. 4, 2021, police executed a search warrant at a residence in Wasaga Beach and seized numerous electronic exhibits for further examination, as well as a prohibited weapon. As a result of this investigation, William Thomas Denney-Harper, 21-years-old, was arrested and charged with two counts of possession of child pornography and one count of unauthorized possession of a weapon.

The accused was released at a bail hearing and is scheduled to appear at the Ontario Court of Justice in Collingwood on March 9, 2021.  

"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," said Detective Staff Sergeant Brian McDermott.  

Anyone wanting to make a difference is encouraged to go to www.protectchildren.ca and download the brochure entitled Child Sexual Abuse – It Is Your Business from the Canadian Centre for Child Protection. 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.   

Police are asking anyone who may have information regarding this investigation or if you have information regarding internet child exploitation, please contact the OPP at 1-888-310-1122. If wish to remain anonymous you can contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS) or www.ontariocrimestoppers.ca. Reporting information may also be made on the internet through www.cybertip.ca

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