L.A. man who allegedly preyed on Saanich, B.C., girl sentenced to 40 years for child luring and pornography

A child luring investigation started by the Saanich Police Department in 2020 has led to a Los Angeles man being sentenced to 40 years in United States federal prison.

In April of 2020, parents of a 12-year-old Saanich girl went to police after finding sexually explicit messages from an unknown individual on their daughter's phone and computer. 

Investigators determined the sender was somewhere in the U.S. and eventually the case was transferred to law enforcement officials with Homeland Security. 

In July 2022, Mark David Wallin, 44, was arrested after investigators determined he had preyed on dozens of boys and girls between the ages of nine and 16, both in the U.S. and internationally.

Saanich police said Wallin groomed his victims to provide him with explicit photos and videos.

Last September, Wallin pleaded guilty to production of child pornography and the enticement of a minor to engage in criminal sexual activity.

Los Angeles Homeland Security Investigations acting special agent John Pasciucco praised the Saanich Police Department in a statement saying collaboration helps "accomplish our mission of safeguarding kids and bringing those who prey on them to justice."

Saanich Det. Const. John Gadsby said the case is a reminder to parents to "be aware of what social media platforms [your children] are on who they are interacting with."