Four people are now facing serious child pornography charges following what police describe as a disturbing investigation that began in Leduc and expanded to Edmonton.
Investigation Timeline and Arrests
The case began on August 20 when Leduc RCMP's General Investigations Section arrested a 27-year-old Leduc man suspected of sexual offences against a child. Police executed a search warrant at a Leduc residence, seizing multiple items including electronic devices that would become crucial evidence.
With assistance from ALERT's Internet Child Exploitation (ICE) unit, investigators analyzed the seized devices and identified additional victims and suspects, leading to an expanded investigation.
On October 8, police executed another search warrant at an Edmonton home, resulting in the arrest of a 34-year-old woman. The investigation continued to develop with the identification and arrest of a 24-year-old Edmonton woman on October 16, followed by a fourth suspect, a 29-year-old Edmonton woman, who was arrested and charged on November 5.
Charges and Court Appearances
Maxance Valade, 27, of Leduc faces the most serious charges including production of child pornography and seven additional counts of sexual offences against children. He remains in police custody.
Sydney Burns, 34, of Edmonton faces identical charges of production of child pornography and seven other sexual offence charges. She also remains in custody.
Fannie Mae Salvador, 24, of Edmonton is charged with transmitting child pornography and three other sexual offences against children. She has been released from custody and is scheduled to appear in Leduc court on November 20.
Jessica Leigh Wood, 29, of Edmonton faces a single charge of sexual interference. She was released from police custody and is scheduled to appear in Leduc court on November 13.
Police Statement and Community Impact
Leduc RCMP Inspector Kiel Samotej acknowledged the challenging nature of the investigation in a official statement, praising the collaborative efforts that made the breakthrough possible.
We thank the staff of ALERT ICE, as well as the Zebra Centre, who provided valuable assistance during this difficult and disturbing investigation, said Inspector Samotej.
Police have emphasized that specific details of the investigation are protected by a publication ban to safeguard the identities of the victims. Authorities have reassured the public that this case involves isolated individuals and there is no information suggesting predatory activity in the broader community.
RCMP encourage anyone with information about this case or similar activities to contact Leduc RCMP at 310-RCMP (7267). Anonymous tips can be submitted to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or online at www.p3tips.com/250.
