In June 2023, the Winnipeg Police Service’s Internet Child Exploitation Unit (ICE) was alerted to child sexual abuse imagery uploaded to the internet.
On October 12, 2023, a search warrant was executed at a residence in the 200 block of Polson Avenue, and several electronic storage devices were seized as evidence.
With the assistance of the Technological Crimes Section, a forensic analysis of these devices revealed numerous images containing child sexual abuse.
After an extensive investigation, it was determined that between January 1, 2014, and October 12, 2023, a male suspect committed sexual offences against two identified victims and luring offences against a victim who has yet to be identified.
On February 29, 2024, a 32-year-old male, Steven PETERSON, of Winnipeg, was arrested and has since been charged with the following offences:
- Possession of Child Pornography
- Accessing Child Pornography
- Sexual Assault
- Sexual Interference
- Adult Invitation to Sexual Touching
- Adult Indecent Exposure to a Person Under 16 Years of Age
- Adult Luring a Person Under 18 Years of Age by Means of Telecommunication
- Assault A Peace Officer
- Resist Arrest
- Possess a Weapon for a Dangerous Purpose
He was detained in custody.
The ICE Unit continues with this investigation. Anyone with information or wishing to speak to investigators can call 204-986-6172.
The Winnipeg Police Service is committed to protecting youth and those at risk of sexual exploitation. The public is encouraged to report any child sexual abuse imagery (child pornography).
Call the non-emergency line at 204-986-6222, Crime Stoppers at 204-786-TIPS (8477), or make a report online at winnipegcrimestoppers.org or at Cybertip.ca