A civilian member of the Halton Regional Police Service is facing serious criminal charges after allegedly creating a fake modeling scout persona to obtain intimate photographs from multiple victims.
The 25-year-old Burlington man, whose identity is protected under a publication ban, was arrested following a comprehensive investigation by the service's Child Abuse and Sexual Assault Unit.
The Elaborate Deception
According to police investigators, the accused allegedly created a fictitious modeling agency and posed as a talent scout to contact potential victims through social media platforms. The scheme targeted individuals across the Greater Toronto Area, with the suspect requesting and obtaining intimate photos under the guise of furthering modeling opportunities.
The investigation revealed that the civilian employee had no connection to legitimate modeling agencies and was operating entirely outside his official duties with the police service.
Swift Police Response
Halton Regional Police moved quickly upon discovering the allegations, placing the employee on administrative duties immediately when the investigation began in late 2023. Following his arrest on January 16, he has been suspended with pay pending the outcome of both the criminal case and an internal police conduct investigation.
The accused faces multiple serious charges including:
- Two counts of extortion
- Two counts of possession of child pornography
- Mischief to data
- Unauthorized use of a computer
Protecting the Victims
Police have confirmed they've identified multiple victims but believe there may be additional individuals who haven't yet come forward. Investigators are particularly concerned about the sensitive nature of the images obtained and the breach of trust involved in these allegations.
The Halton Regional Police Service has emphasized that the accused worked in an administrative capacity and had no contact with the public as part of his regular duties. However, the case has raised serious questions about internal oversight and employee conduct within law enforcement agencies.
Anyone with additional information about this case or who believes they may have been targeted by similar schemes is urged to contact the Halton Regional Police Service's Child Abuse and Sexual Assault Unit at 905-825-4777.
