OKOTOKS, Alberta — A 35-year-old Alberta man is facing criminal charges after investigators seized more than 500,000 child exploitation images and videos from his home in what authorities say is the largest collection ever uncovered by the Alberta Internet Child Exploitation (ICE) Team.
Police identified the accused as Corey Earhart of Okotoks. He has been charged with possession and accessing child sexual exploitation material following an investigation that led officers to his residence on May 26.
Largest Seizure in Team’s History
According to investigators, officers seized multiple computers, hard drives, and electronic devices during the search of the home.
Authorities described the discovery as unprecedented, noting that the volume of material recovered in this single case amounted to roughly half of everything the specialized unit seized during the previous year.
Police said the collection contained more than 500,000 images and videos depicting child sexual exploitation.
Thousands of Potential Victims
Investigators believe the material may involve tens of thousands of victims, including very young children.
Officials say one of the challenges now facing investigators is determining the identities of the victims and where they may be located around the world.
Law enforcement agencies often work with national and international partners to identify children depicted in such material and provide support to victims.
Community Shocked by Allegations
The case has stunned residents in the town of Okotoks, located south of Calgary.
Child advocacy organizations emphasized that exploitation images continue to harm victims long after the original abuse occurs because the material can be repeatedly shared and viewed online.
Experts warn that the circulation of such content fuels demand and contributes to ongoing exploitation of children worldwide.
Additional Court Proceedings
Court records indicate Earhart was released from custody following his arrest and is scheduled to appear in Okotoks court in August.
He is also expected to appear in Calgary court in connection with separate, previously reported drug-related charges.
As with all criminal proceedings, the allegations have not been proven in court, and the accused is presumed innocent unless found guilty
