The mandate for the New Brunswick RCMP's Internet Child Exploitation (ICE) Unit is to locate, assist, and support child victims of online sexual abuse, and identify those who are criminally responsible. The unit includes 11 investigators, including one each from Saint John Police Force and Kennebecasis Regional Police Force, one analyst, and one support staff. ICE has been operational since 2007.
Between 2015 and 2023, there was a dramatic increase of reported child-related sexual exploitation files, including 568 new investigations in 2023 compared to 132 in 2015, an increase of 330% year over year. In 2023, as part of the provincial budget announcement, new positions and resources were allocated to the New Brunswick RCMP, which included funding for additional positions within the ICE Unit.
With youth relying more and more on social media for socializing and entertainment, there are more ways for criminals to target children for the purpose of sexual exploitation and share explicit content involving children.
"This increase in positions has proven to be very positive for us, and for New Brunswickers," says Cpl. Hans Ouellette of the New Brunswick RCMP. "With these incremental positions and support, we have more resources available to pursue those who are trying to harm our youth."
Since 2021, the New Brunswick RCMP's ICE Unit has executed 73 search warrants, resulting in 52 arrests and 103 charges laid. There is an average of over 70 reports of sextortion per week in Canada.
"It is important for parents and guardians to speak with their children about how to stay safe when using the internet," continues Cpl. Ouellette. "We understand that it may be difficult for youth to talk about these types of incidents, but it is vital to notify police as soon as possible if you have been a victim of online extortion or online sexual abuse of any kind."
For more information on how to protect yourself and your children online, please visit the following links:
- RCMP Internet Safety
- Cybertip.ca
- Protectkidsonline.ca
- Needhelpnow.ca
- Dontgetsextorted.ca