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Suspect released for next court appearance in November (CHAT NEWS TODAY image)

Taber man arrested on child pornography charges

Oct 23, 2023 | 1:25 PM

TABER, AB. — An investigation by the ALERT Internet Child Exploitation (ICE) unit has resulted in a 25 year old Taber man being charged with child pornography offences.

Investigators says the suspect uploaded child pornography via a social media application.

ICE, with the help of Taber Police Service, arrested the suspect and searched a Taber home on October 19.

ICE will continue its investigation with a complete forensic analysis and examination of seized mobile devices.

“Child sexual exploitation offences have steadily increased across the province and have a substantial impact on communities big and small. We applaud our partnership with ALERT and our shared commitment to keeping kids safe online,” said Chief Graham Abela, Taber Police Service in a release.

“The work of ALERT investigating those that allegedly prey on the most vulnerable is really needed at this time. Thanks to the Province for funding these ICE teams. It is great to see our own Taber Police Service partnering and working together with ALERT to address these serious crimes in our community,” said John MacDonald, Chair of Taber Municipal Police Commission and member of ALERT’s Civilian Advisory Committee.

ALERT began its investigation in early October 2023 based on a referral tip from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC). The investigation centered on an unknown person sharing child pornography via Snapchat.

Brady Pavka, 25 years old, was charged with accessing, possessing, and making available child pornography.

Pavka was released from custody and is scheduled to appear in court on November 21, 2023.