Male Arrested for Sexual Exploitation of a Youth

A male is in custody following an investigation into the sexual luring of a 13-year-old boy.

On Monday, April 15, 2024, members of the DRPS Internet Child Exploitation Unit (ICE) arrested an adult male after an investigation into the luring of a 13-year-old male through Snapchat.  It is reported that the suspect requested sexually explicit photos from the youth.  Further investigation revealed the possibility of other victims.

Tyler James CROFT, age 25 from Peterborough is charged with Luring a Child Under 16 to Make Child Pornography.

He was held for a bail hearing.

Police have concerns there may be other victims and are requesting anyone with information to come forward to investigators. 

For more information on our ICE unit and resources that are available please visit our website at https://www.drps.ca/community-safety-and-support/crime-prevention/internet-safety-and-child-exploitation/

The Durham Regional Police would like to acknowledge the assistance of the Canadian National and Ontario Provincial Strategies to Protect Children from Sexual Abuse and Exploitation on the Internet. This project has been made possible by a grant from the Ministry of the Solicitor General.

Anyone who has been victimized by the accused or has information about this or similar incidents is asked to contact D/Cst. Powell of the Major Crime Internet Child Exploitation Unit at 1-888-579-1520 ext. 5545.

Anonymous information can be sent to Durham Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or online at www.durhamregionalcrimestoppers.ca and tipsters may be eligible for a $2,000 cash reward.

The information in this media release contains facts and circumstances that have been obtained from a police investigation.  These allegations have yet to be proven in court. 

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