Blind River resident faces child pornography charges

A Blind River man faces child pornography charges after a search warrant was executed at a home in Blind River on Wednesday.

A news release issued today by Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) states that numerous electronic devices were seized during the search.

Gregory Ryder was arrested and charged as a result.

Full text of the OPP release follows:

Members of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) Child Sexual Exploitation Unit, Digital Forensics Unit and East Algoma Detachment have arrested and charged a Blind River resident following an online child sexual exploitation investigation.

On Dec. 8, 2021, police executed a search warrant at a home in Blind River and seized numerous electronic devices.

As a result of this investigation, Gregory Ryder, 44 years old, was arrested and charged with:
    •    possession of child pornography, as per section 163.1(4) of the Criminal Code (CC) - two counts
    •    make available child pornography, as per section 163.1 (3) of CC

The accused was held in custody following a bail hearing and is scheduled to appear in court on Dec. 13, 2021, at the Ontario Court of Justice in Sault Ste Marie, Ont.

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.

Anyone wanting to make a difference is encouraged to go here and download the "Child Sexual Abuse-It Is Your Business" brochure 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 online. Reporting information may also be made on the internet here.