Over 60 people have been arrested and more than 300 charges were laid in the wake of an online child exploitation investigation, Ontario Provincial Police confirmed on Wednesday.
Among those arrested in what OPP called Project Aquatic, was Tyler Pennells, a former Toronto Catholic District School Board employee. Pennells is one of only a handful that have been publicly named in the investigation.
Pennells was charged by Toronto police in February after allegedly using various names on social media to contact minors.
A spokesperson with TCDSB told CityNews Toronto that Pennells had been placed on administrative leave.
His next court date is scheduled for Thursday.
Another man who allegedly placed hidden cameras inside of washrooms at various coffee shops in Toronto has also been named by the OPP. Toronto native William Jeon, 29, was arrested last September after authorities discovered him to be in the possession of child pornography.
Authorities involved in the investigation say that Jeon was employed at coffee shops in the Cumberland Street and Bay Street and the Bay Street and Richmond Street West areas.
The accused has been released from custody and is slated for their first court appearance on June 5, 2024.
“We’re dedicated to prevention and accountability. We need everyone’s support to combat this community issue. If you see something, report it,” said OPP Staff Sergeant Tim Brown. “Together, we can create a safer environment for all children, ensuring their well-being and protection.”
Project Aquatic was launched in February, according to OPP officials, who say that its intent was to identify and arrest people accused of making, possessing and distributing material of child sexual abuse.
One individual allegedly arranged for a meeting between an undercover investigator and a child for the purpose of sexual abuse. Another person is accused of owning approximately 21 terabytes of data containing material of child sexual abuse.
According to OPP Commissioner Thomas Carrique, 34 victims identified in Project Aquatic have been provided victim support, and 30 impacted children were safeguarded.
Victims in the investigation range in age from infants to teenagers.
Of the 64 people facing more than 300 combined charges, over 600 of their electronic devices were seized.
The accused in the investigation are aged between 16 to 89.
“Our collective strength lies in our ongoing commitment to protect children from the impacts of sexual exploitation,” said Carrique.