A Calgary man is facing several child pornography charges.
According to a news release, the Internet Child Exploitation unit with the Alberta Serious Law Enforcement Response Teams has charged Marco Farrier with making, accessing, and possessing child pornography.
ALERT says the ICE unit received a tip from Homeland Security Investigations in the United States that Farrier was in a relationship with California man Nicholas Des Barres who was charged last year with several counts of child sexual abuse.
Police added that Des Barres had sent sex toys to a 13-year-old in North Carolina. A total of 28 devices were taken from his home and messages were found with Farrier dating back to 2016.
“The messages sent between these two men went on for years and were incredibly disturbing. They spoke at length about sexually assaulting several individuals who have been identified as potential victims. HSI is working to identify who these children are," said Cst. Erin Penner with ALERT ICE. "With respect to Farrier, we believe he met Des Barres in person and that they have continued to communicate with one another while Des Barres has been incarcerated."
Earlier this year in August, ICE searched Farrier's home with help from the Calgary Police Service. According to ALERT, electronic devices were taken and forensic analysis is ongoing.
“This is another example of the importance of cross-border partnerships between police agencies, especially when it comes to this type of criminal activity,” Penner added. “By sharing evidence and intel with one another, we’re able to see the intricacies of their behaviors and ultimately put a stop to it.”
Farrier will appear in court on Wednesday (Sept. 25).
If you have information on the investigation or any child exploitation situation you can call Strathmore RCMP at 403-934-3968.