The investigation and subsequent arrests were carried out by The Provincial Strategy To Protect Children From Sexual Abuse And Exploitation On The Internet. This multi-jurisdictional strategy is made up of the OPP and 18 municipal police services from across Ontario, 14 of which were involved in the sweeping arrests that occurred.

At a news conference today, OPP Commissioner Fantino and Provincial Strategy police partners who were instrumental in conducting this province-wide sweep announced details about the investigation and the resulting charges.

"Today is a great day for children and communities right across the province," Fantino said. "The exploitation of children - by whatever means - is appalling and unconscionable."

"It is appropriate that we are here today, making this announcement on Safer Internet Day," Fantino added. "It is a day recognized in 43 countries world-wide to highlight the need to make the Internet a safe and useful tool for our children to access for both educational and personal use."

The investigation began in January 2008, and revealed a large number of individuals who were using the Internet to distribute images of child sexual abuse.

As a result of the investigation, 25 search warrants were executed in 16 communities across Ontario, resulting in 73 criminal charges being laid.

For a complete list of offenders, visit:
http://micro.newswire.ca/release.cgi?rkey=1602129110&view=11636-2&Start=0