The Saskatchewan Internet Child Exploitation (ICE) Unit has charged a Regina man with child exploitation offences. In August, 2024, the Sask ICE Unit commenced an online investigation relating to online luring.

On September 12, 2024, the Saskatchewan ICE Unit conducted a Search Warrant at a home in Regina. Electronic devices were examined on scene and seized pursuant to the investigation. As a result, 39-year-old Colin Esplen of Regina was charged on September 12, 2024 with the following:

• Communicate with a person who the accused believes is, under the age of 18 years, for the purpose of facilitating the commission of an offence under Section 152, with respect to that person, contrary to Section 172.1(1)(b) of the Criminal Code;
• Making sexually explicit material available to a person the accused believes is, under 16 years, for the purpose of facilitating the commission of an offence under Section 152, with respect to that person, contrary to Section 171.1(1)(b) of the Criminal Code.

Colin Esplen appeared in court on September 13th and has been released on numerous conditions. His next court appearance is set for Oct 2, 2024 at 9:30 at Regina Provincial Court.

(Court Information Number: 991280884)

The Saskatchewan ICE Unit is comprised of investigators from the Saskatchewan RCMP, Regina Police Service, Saskatoon Police Service, and Prince Albert Police Service. Their mandate is to investigate crimes involving the abuse and/or exploitation of children on the Internet.