HEARST - A call to police about a "potential inappropriate relationship" between an adult and a young teen has led to charges.
James Bay OPP received the call on May 2 about the relationship between a 21-year-old and a 13-year-old in Hearst. An extensive investigation was done and the suspect was arrested on May 7.
A 21-year-old from Hearst, who police aren't naming to protect the identity of the victim, is charged with:
- 3 counts of sexual assault on a person under 16 years of age
- Sexual interference
- Possession of child pornography
- Luring a person under 16 years of age by means of telecommunication
- Fail to comply with probation order
None of the charges have been tested in court and the accused is considered innocent unless proven guilty.
"Child predators use online chat rooms and social media applications — as millions of children do every day — to gain access to children. We encourage parents and caregivers to proactively speak to children about online safety," said police in a news release.
If you believe a child is in danger, police say to call 911. If you have information related to child sexual exploitation, call your local police.
Information and resources are available online at the Canadian Centre for Child Protection.
