Latest news with #SaanichPoliceDepartment
Hamilton Spectator
4 days ago
- Hamilton Spectator
U.S. man sentenced for child luring in case involving Saanich, B.C., girl
SAANICH - An American man has been sentenced to 40 years in a U.S. prison for grooming children in a case that began when the parents of a 12-year-old girl from Saanich, B.C., went to police. The Saanich Police Department says in a news release the girl's parents told officers in April 2020, that they had discovered sexually explicit messages on their daughter's phone from an unknown person. It says officers immediately began a child-luring investigation and determined the suspect to be an American. Police say they worked with U.S. law enforcement officers, who eventually took over the case and arrested Mark Wallen in July 2022. They say investigators determined the Los Angeles man had been preying on girls and boys ranging in age from nine to 16 years old, grooming them to send him sexually explicit photos and videos. Police say Wallen pleaded guilty to the production of child pornography and the enticement of a minor to engage in criminal sexual activity last September. He was sentenced on May 16 to four decades in prison, and has a restitution hearing scheduled for Aug. 13. This report by The Canadian Press was first published June 10, 2025. Error! Sorry, there was an error processing your request. There was a problem with the recaptcha. Please try again. You may unsubscribe at any time. By signing up, you agree to our terms of use and privacy policy . This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google privacy policy and terms of service apply. Want more of the latest from us? Sign up for more at our newsletter page .
Toronto Star
4 days ago
- Toronto Star
U.S. man sentenced for child luring in case involving Saanich, B.C., girl
SAANICH - An American man has been sentenced to 40 years in a U.S. prison for grooming children in a case that began when the parents of a 12-year-old girl from Saanich, B.C., went to police. The Saanich Police Department says in a news release the girl's parents told officers in April 2020, that they had discovered sexually explicit messages on their daughter's phone from an unknown person.
Winnipeg Free Press
4 days ago
- Winnipeg Free Press
U.S. man sentenced for child luring in case involving Saanich, B.C., girl
SAANICH – An American man has been sentenced to 40 years in a U.S. prison for grooming children in a case that began when the parents of a 12-year-old girl from Saanich, B.C., went to police. The Saanich Police Department says in a news release the girl's parents told officers in April 2020, that they had discovered sexually explicit messages on their daughter's phone from an unknown person. It says officers immediately began a child-luring investigation and determined the suspect to be an American. Police say they worked with U.S. law enforcement officers, who eventually took over the case and arrested Mark Wallen in July 2022. They say investigators determined the Los Angeles man had been preying on girls and boys ranging in age from nine to 16 years old, grooming them to send him sexually explicit photos and videos. Police say Wallen pleaded guilty to the production of child pornography and the enticement of a minor to engage in criminal sexual activity last September. He was sentenced on May 16 to four decades in prison, and has a restitution hearing scheduled for Aug. 13. This report by The Canadian Press was first published June 10, 2025.
Time of India
14-05-2025
- Time of India
From classroom to courtroom: Victoria teacher's double life ends with child sex exploitation charges
For students at Oak Bay High and Mount Doug Secondary, Marnie Burnham was a familiar face at the front of the classroom. But behind the whiteboard, police say, she led a troubling double life, one that has now led to multiple charges of child sexual exploitation and telecommunication to lure a minor. The 36-year-old teacher, who also taught under the name Marnie Forin, was arrested by the Saanich Police Department 's special investigations unit on February 15, 2024. What began as a single report has since grown into two separate investigations as more alleged victims have come forward. Also read: Trial of sexual assault accused ex-junior hockey players continues, complainant says 'froze' in hotel room by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Linda Kozlowski, 67, Shows Off Her Perfect Figure In A New Photo Investructor Undo Court documents reveal Burnham is facing a total of five charges: three counts of sexual exploitation and two counts of telecommunication to lure a person under 18. The incidents allegedly occurred between January and June 2023 within the Greater Victoria area. 'A criminal investigation was launched once a victim was identified,' said Saanich police. 'During the initial investigation, additional alleged victims were identified, leading to a second separate investigation.' Live Events School district reacts to shocking allegations The Greater Victoria School District said it launched its own internal investigation after becoming aware of the allegations. Superintendent Deb Whitten confirmed that the matter was immediately reported to police, the Ministry of Education and Child Care, and the Teacher Regulation Branch. 'Students known to have been involved have been contacted by the district and/or police services and advised of support services,' said Whitten. Burnham has been placed on unpaid leave and is not permitted on school property. Her bail conditions also prohibit contact with anyone under 18, including her alleged victims. The case has left the school community reeling, with concerns about how long the behaviour may have gone unnoticed. Whitten assured families that the district will continue to work closely with law enforcement. Also read: 'Intoxicated, trapped': Woman testifies against ex-junior Canada hockey players in 2018 sexual assault case Police believe more victims may still be out there Investigators are urging anyone under the age of 18 who had sexual contact with Burnham before December 2024 to contact police. The Saanich Police Department has publicly thanked the individuals who have already come forward, calling their actions 'brave.' 'We want to thank those who have come forward for their bravery,' Saanich police said. 'Our investigators believe there may be more who have yet to do so.' Burnham is due back in court on May 26, 2025. Her case highlights growing concerns about teacher misconduct and student safety in Canadian schools.
