The Alberta Law Enforcement Response Team (ALERT), working with Morinville RCMP, have charged an Edmonton fire captain and Morinville resident with multiple offences involving child sexual abuse material.
On Jan. 16 police arrested and charged Christopher McDonald, 54, with possession of child pornography, accessing child pornography, making available child pornography, and two counts of unsafe storage of a firearm.
ALERT’s Internet Child Exploitation (ICE) unit began investigating McDonald in October 2023 after they received reports “of a suspect sharing high volumes of child sexual exploitation materials online,” according to an ALERT press release.
“A number of computers and electronic devices were seized from McDonald’s home, which are now being examined to collect further evidence,” the release says.
McDonald has been released from custody on a number of court-imposed conditions. He will appear in Morinville court on Feb. 15.
“While the investigation and charges are related to online offences, the nature of McDonald’s employment placed him in a position of trust and authority,” the release says.
ICE is encouraging anyone with information about this case to come forward and contact police. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact local police or Crime Stoppers (1-800-222-TIPS).
