Two Quinte area residents were among those arrested and charged in Ontario Provincial Police’s Project Time child exploitation investigation.
In a release, OPP say as part of a joint initiative with 25 other police services across Ontario, including the Belleville Police Service, 63 individuals were charged and 51 victims were identified in the fight against online child exploitation.
Police say as part of Project Time, investigators targeted individuals making, possessing and distributing child sexual abuse material.
Victims were also identified and safeguarded, with appropriate support provided to those impacted.
OPP provided the following results of their investigation:
- 51 victims identified
- 63 individuals arrested
- 213 charges laid
- 814 electronic devices seized
- 264 criminal investigations conducted
- 154 ongoing investigations
- Two accused were in a position of trust and authority in their communities
- Eight accused were repeat offenders
“Project Time is a testament to the dedication and commitment of law enforcement professionals across Ontario and Canada to protect children from exploitation. The results of this operation demonstrate the power of collaboration, the strength of the Provincial Internet Child Exploitation Strategy and the relentless pursuit of those who prey on the most vulnerable.” OPP Detective Staff Sergeant Tara Clark, Provincial Internet Child Exploitation Strategy Lead, said in the release.
In an addendum, police say they arrested and charged 45-year-old William Paul O’Brien with the following:
- Possession of Child Sexual Abuse & Exploitation Material x2
- Distribution of Child Sexual Abuse & Exploitation Material x2
- Making Child Sexual Abuse & Exploitation Material x2
- Careless Storage of a firearm
- Unauthorized Possession of a Restricted Weapon
- Knowledge of possession of an unauthorized firearm
- Possession of a prohibited or restricted firearm with ammunition
He was held in custody with a scheduled court date for July 17, 2026.
Additionally, 37-year-old Kevin Whalen of Quinte West was arrested and charged with the following:
- Possession of Child Sexual Abuse & Exploitation Material x2
- Accessing Child Sexual Abuse & Exploitation Material
Whalen was held in custody, with a court date set for August 13, 2026.
