New Westminster resident charged with child exploitation offences

Police in New Westminster say a resident of the city is facing child exploitation-related charges after an investigation into online images of child sexual abuse.

In an update on Friday, the New Westminster Police Department says the accused was arrested on July 11, after its Major Crimes detectives received information from the BC RCMP Integrated Child Exploitation Unit.

“The possession of this material provides a depraved incentive for those distributing and creating child sexual abuse material to continue their activities. It’s a cycle that causes far-reaching harm to children, their families, caregivers, and communities,” Sgt. Andrew Leaver said in a statement.

“Additionally, these kinds of investigations are becoming more frequent and more resource intensive considering new factors like AI-generated images.”

The New Westminster Police Department added it currently doesn’t have an investigator dedicated to child sexual exploitation investigations.

Police say 45-year-old Christien Stringam is now facing one count of Possession of Child Pornography, contrary to section 163.1 (4) of the Criminal Code of Canada.

According to police, Stringam has been released from custody awaiting their next court appearance. Stringam is under court-ordered conditions, including not communicating or being alone with anyone under 18 years of age.