Edmonton fire captain charged with child pornography offences

A captain with the Edmonton Fire Rescue Services has been charged with child sexual exploitation offences, according to Alberta Law Enforcement Response Teams.

Christopher McDonald, 54, was arrested Jan. 16, with the help of Morinville RCMP, following an investigation by ALERT’s internet child exploitation (ICE) unit.

Computers and other electronic devices were seized from his home, police say, and they are being examined to collect further evidence. Police allege there were also several improperly stored guns inside the home.

ALERT says the ICE investigation began in October 2023 after reports of a suspect sharing “high volumes” of child sexual exploitation material online.

“Given the position of authority and the role firefighters have in the community, it is concerning that the suspect is accessing and distributing child sexual abuse material,” said ALERT Const. Scott Sterling.

McDonald is charged with possession of child pornography, accessing child pornography, making available child pornography, and two counts of unsafe storage of a firearm.

He was released from custody with court-imposed conditions. His next scheduled court appearance is Feb. 15 in Morinville.

ICE is encouraging anyone with information to come forward and contact police.