Alberta man faces 27 charges for allegedly making child pornography, online luring
49-year-old man allegedly targeted young girls in Edmonton region, investigators say
Police allege an Alberta man facing 27 child exploitation charges targeted underage girls online before luring his victims to meet him in person.
In a news release Wednesday, investigators with the Alberta Law Enforcement Response Teams announced charges against 49-year-old Campbell Fergusson of Leduc, Alta.
The charges include six counts of making child pornography, six counts of possessing child pornography, as well as child luring charges.
ALERT's Internet Child Exploitation unit began investigating Fergusson in April after receiving an online tip.
Police allege he targeted girls in the Edmonton area between the ages of 15 and 16 years old via social media apps, including Snapchat.
Investigators allege that Fergusson would encourage his victims to meet him in person so he could sexually exploit and assault them.
Police believe there may be additional victims they have yet to identify.
Pseudonyms, search for victims
Fergusson was arrested on Thursday and several electronic devices were seized, including a smartphone and laptop, police said.
"Our investigators and forensic technicians have successfully identified six victims linked to Mr. Fergusson, but this investigation doesn't stop here," said Det. Christine Sawatsky in a news release.
"We have reason to believe there are more victims we have yet to identify as we discover images and videos on these devices."
Investigators said the accused may be known to his victims under the usernames burkeishere2525, devonhouston25, keenonhedstrom, treyliles2424, or by his pseudonym, Burke.
"We hope that by releasing his usernames, that more victims will be encouraged to come forward and speak with police," Sawatsky said.
Anyone with information about the investigation is asked to contact police or Crime Stoppers.
Victims who do come forward will be offered counselling and supports through the Zebra Child and Youth Advocacy Centre, police said.
Fergusson remains in custody. His next court appearance is scheduled for July 3.
