Release:
The RCMP’s Provincial Internet Child Exploitation (ICE) Unit, has arrested an Onslow Mountain man for child pornography offences.
On May 11, the RCMP’s ICE Unit along with General Duty members of the Bible Hill Detachment and RCMP Digital Forensic Services searched a home in Onslow Mountain. Investigators were directed to the home after a social media application notified law enforcement that child pornography was being shared on their service. As a result of the investigation, Jon-Erik Hill, 31, has been charged with:
· Making Child Pornography
· Transmitting Child Pornography
· Possession of Child Pornography
Hill was released on a number of strict conditions and is scheduled to appear in court on August 12.
During this unprecedented time of social and physical distancing, children may have more unsupervised access to the internet, putting them at greater risk of harm. Parents and caregivers are encouraged to continue monitoring their children’s online activities. Additionally, without typical access to teachers, health care professionals and social workers, children may be at greater risk of physical and sexual abuse within the home. Anyone with concerns about the health and wellness of a child is encouraged to contact local police.
In Nova Scotia it is mandatory for citizens to report suspected child pornography. This means that anyone who encounters child pornography material or recordings must report it to the police. Failing to report suspicious activity and materials could result in penalties similar to failure to report child abuse set out in the Child and Family Services Act. The RCMP encourages citizens to be a voice for children who are victims of sexual exploitation by reporting any suspected offences to your local police or by using Canada’s National tipline for reporting online sexual exploitation of children at www.cybertip.ca.