Alberta
Edmonton Fire Rescue Captain charged with child sexual exploitation
News release from ALERT Internet Child Exploitation unit (ICE)
Edmonton fire captain charged in ICE investigation
A Captain with the Edmonton Fire Rescue Service has been charged with child sexual exploitation offences following an investigation by ALERT’s Internet Child Exploitation (ICE) unit.
Christopher McDonald was arrested on January 16, 2024 with the help of the Morinville RCMP. The 54-year-old man is charged with possession of child pornography, accessing child pornography, making available child pornography, and two counts of unsafe storage of a firearm.
ICE began its investigation into McDonald in October 2023 following reports of a suspect sharing high volumes of child sexual exploitation materials online.
“Given the position of authority and the role firefighters have in the community it is concerning that the suspect is accessing and distributing child sexual abuse material,” said Const. Scott Sterling, ALERT ICE.
A number of computers and electronic devices were seized from McDonald’s home, which are now being examined to collect further evidence. During the search of his home several firearms were located, which were not being properly stored.
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. 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).
McDonald was released from custody on a number of court-imposed conditions, and is awaiting his next scheduled court appearance on February 15, 2024 in Morinville, Alta.
ALERT was established and is funded by the Alberta Government and is a compilation of the province’s most sophisticated law enforcement resources committed to tackling serious and organized crime.
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Protecting the right to vote for Canadian citizens: Minister McIver
Minister of Municipal Affairs Ric McIver issued the following statement in response to Calgary City Council’s vote to extend the right to vote to permanent residents:
“Yesterday, Calgary city council passed a motion advocating for permanent residents to be extended the right to vote in civic elections. Alberta’s government has been clear since the beginning: only Canadian citizens are able to vote in civic elections. That will not be changing.
“The Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms affirms the right of every Canadian citizen to vote and to run as a candidate. This right extends to voters in municipal, provincial and federal elections.
“Protecting our democracy is of the utmost importance. Our provincial election legislation, like the Local Authorities Elections Act, has also been clear since its inception that voting is a right of Canadian citizens.
“Alberta’s government is also ensuring that voting is accessible for more Albertans. The Municipal Affairs Statutes Amendment Act proposes to enable special ballot access for any voter who requests it, without having to provide any specific reason such as physical disability, absence from the municipality or working for the municipal election. The ministries of Seniors, Community and Social Services and Service Alberta and Red Tape Reduction are also making it easier for individuals to obtain the identification Albertans need for a variety of services, including the ability to cast a ballot.
“Our government will continue to protect the integrity of our elections and make sure voting is accessible for all Albertans who are Canadian citizens.”
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