Charges have been laid against two people from southern Alberta in connection to alleged child sexual exploitation. (Photo: ALERT)

By David Opinko

Two southern Albertans charged after allegedly sexually exploiting child

Dec 14, 2023 | 9:33 AM

Warning: This story may contain information that may be disturbing to some.

LETHBRIDGE, AB – Charges have been laid against two people in connection to sex-related offences involving a youth.

The Alberta Law Enforcement Response Team (ALERT) Internet Child Exploitation Unit (ICE) said their investigation has lead to the rescue of a child in southern Alberta.

Officers first searched a home in Barnwell on September 19, 2023, which was prompted after a tip from the National Centre for Missing and Exploited Children, who shared information about a local person allegedly uploading child pornography to Facebook.

A forensic analysis of computers seized from the home reportedly resulted in the seizure of nearly half a million photos and videos of child sexual abuse materials. Investigators believe the materials were unique and possibly created by the accused.

Nighttime construction on Hwy 3 in Lethbridge starts April 17

Apr 17, 2025

SASHA launches #BuyABed fundraiser to support vulnerable Lethbridge residents

Apr 04, 2025

$20K grants available: TELUS STORYHIVE Pan-Asian Edition opens applications April 1

Mar 18, 2025

ICE was then lead to a home in Lethbridge on November 2, 2023. It was alleged by ALERT that the child had been sexually assaulted in the home.

The child has been receiving help from a variety of specialized support services. Alberta Children’s Services is also involved.

A 34-year-old woman from Lethbridge is charged with one count each of sexual assault, sexual interference, making child pornography, distributing child pornography, and possessing child pornography.

She has been released from custody and is scheduled to appear in court in Lethbridge on December 19, 2023.

A 41-year-old man from Barnwell is charged with one count each of sexual assault, making child pornography, accessing child pornography, and possessing child pornography.

He has been released from custody and is scheduled to appear in court in Taber on January 16, 2024.

Anyone with information about this case or any child exploitation situation is asked to call their local police. Tips can also be submitted anonymously to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or online at P3Tips.com

READ MORE: Lethbridge News Now

—

If you have a news tip, question or concern, please email Lethbridge.newsroom@Pattisonmedia.com.

For local news delivered daily to your email inbox, subscribe for free to the Lethbridge News Now newsletter here. You can also download the Lethbridge News Now mobile app in the Google Play and the Apple App Stores.