RCMP in Lynn Lake have arrested and charged a 52-year-old male they believe was involved in the sexual exploitation of 11 area boys.

Police began the investigation on July 23, 2020 and say that the suspect groomed the victims, all under the age of 16, with rewards of money, alcohol, drugs and other items. The investigation determined that the victims had been sexually abused beginning in 2017 until recently in 2020.

Arnold Collier from Lynn Lake is facing 67 criminal charges for his alleged involvement including Sexual assault, Sexual interference and other related offences.

Collier remain in custody and is scheduled to appear in a Thompson court on September 3, 2020.

Sergeant Paul Manaigre of the Manitoba RCMP said, “Providing gifts is a common way offenders groom their young victims, it’s very important that parents are aware of this tactic and speak to their children about grooming.”

RCMP say that while they are confident that investigators have identified all the victims there is the possibility that others were abused by the suspect. Anyone who may have been a victim or has information that can help investigators is asked to call RCMP at (204) 356-8862.

The RCMP has also partnered with Klinic Community Health. Klinic can accept reports from survivors of sexual assault who are 16-years-old or older from anywhere in Manitoba. The survivors can remain anonymous and work with Klinic counselors to determine the best way forward. Klinic 24/7 Sexual Assault Crisis Line: 1-888-292-7565.

The investigation is continuing.

© News4.ca 2020