A 56-year-old man from Fredericton, N.B., has been charged in connection with an investigation into child sexual abuse and exploitation material.

The investigation, led by the New Brunswick RCMP's Internet Child Exploitation Unit (ICE), began on December 9, 2025, when the unit received a tip involving the possibility of a child in danger of further exploitation. 

In the early hours of December 10, 2025, members of the RCMP Internet Child Exploitation Unit, along with members of the Fredericton Police Force, attended a residence on Parkside Drive in Fredericton, N.B. on an emergency basis to locate and safeguard a child. 

As part of the investigation, a 56-year-old man was arrested at the scene, and police seized several electronic devices as part of their investigation. The individual was later released on strict conditions pending a future court appearance.

On May 13,2026, Stephen Harpell was charged in Fredericton Provincial Court with possession of child sexual abuse and exploitation material
, production of child sexual abuse and exploitation material, sexual interference , voyeurism and exposure to a person under the age of 16 for a sexual purpose. 

On May 14,  Stephen Harpell appeared in Fredericton Provincial Court and is scheduled to return on June 8,  to enter a plea.

The New Brunswick RCMP's Internet Child Exploitation Unit includes members from the Kennebecasis Regional Police Force. 

The police also urged the the victims, if any,  or have any information related to similar crimes, can contact the local police.