Introduction

In a disturbing turn of events, a 37-year-old man from Winnipeg has been charged with a series of grave offenses, including voyeurism and child pornography, after police seized videos filmed in a public pool change room.

Investigation Summary

The allegations came to light when investigators were tipped off about the presence of child sex abuse imagery found on a mobile device belonging to the suspect. Following the lead, authorities obtained an arrest warrant and launched a thorough investigation.

During their inquiry, officers discovered video recordings from April and May 2024 that depicted both children and adults in various states of undress at the family change room of a well-known public facility in the Maples neighborhood—specifically, the city-run Seven Oaks pool.

City's Response

A spokesperson for the City of Winnipeg emphasized that patron safety in recreational facilities is taken very seriously. They noted that all recreational employees undergo specialized training in partnership with the Canadian Centre for Child Protection, which includes protocols for reporting inappropriate behaviors, such as filming in change areas—a practice strictly prohibited.

Details of the Arrest

The arrest of Matthew James Mousseau on October 2 has sent shockwaves throughout the community. Further investigations revealed that Mousseau was allegedly involved in an inappropriate relationship with a student while he was employed as a high school teacher in Winnipeg's North End. This has raised serious concerns about the safety and well-being of students under his care.

Charges and Legal Proceedings

Mousseau faces multiple serious charges: possession of child pornography, accessing child pornography, voyeurism, sexual assault, and sexual exploitation. Despite the severity of these charges, it’s important to note that they have not yet been tested in court. Following his arrest, he was released under a set of strict conditions.

Community Impact and Response

Winnipeg Police Constable Claude Chancy highlighted the bravery of a survivor who stepped forward, which was pivotal in initiating the investigation. 'It takes immense strength to come forward, and we are grateful to the individual for their courage in speaking up,' he said.

The charges related to sexual assault and exploitation stem from Mousseau's alleged interactions with the student, while the voyeurism and child pornography charges arise from the unsettling videos found.

Support for Victims

In light of the ongoing investigation, police are working to identify potential victims shown in the videos, with plans to connect them with essential support services. 'This is a traumatic violation of privacy and trust,' stated Chancy, urging the public to be vigilant and report any suspicious activities or items, especially in change rooms or restrooms.

Conclusion

The investigation is ongoing, and authorities have warned all citizens to remain aware of their surroundings and prioritize their safety in public spaces. The unsettling nature of these allegations serves as a grim reminder of the importance of protection and vigilance in community settings.