--- Gatineau Police charge teens with possession and distribution of child pornography

Jordan Gowling

The Gatineau Police announced on February 2, the arrest of several male teens in relation to the possession and distribution of child pornography and internet luring.

The arrest follows several weeks of investigations that exposed a network for the exchange and sale of child pornography, according to release issued by the police service. The photos of female teens were obtained illegally when someone accessed them by pirating their Snapchat accounts.

The accused male teens appeared before the youth division of the Court of Quebec to face charges. During their investigations, the police were able to identify several victims. 

The Gatineau police says because the victims are minors, they will not be providing any information on their identities or which schools they attend in the region. The press release says the individuals involved are receiving the necessary psychological support and guidance during the investigations. The police are working closely with every school in connection with the case. 

The investigation is ongoing in order to determine if other teens are involved in the network and if there are other victims to identify. The release stated that parents should talk to their children about the risks associated with apps and should be encouraged to report any suspicious activity online. 

The Gatineau Police says that if anyone has information pertaining to the production, possession or distribution of child pornography should call the Infoline at 819 243-4636, extension 5. 

[Local Journalism Initiative]