Sex crimes investigators made a startling discovery in stuffed toys as part of the ongoing investigation of a Bowmanville, Ont. man facing child sexual assault and child porn charges.
Investigators found video cameras inside the room of one of the alleged victims of Ian Matthews Dean.
Durham Region police said a search of the accused's home led them to a teddy bear that had a video camera installed in the toy's eye. The camera was capable of being operated at a distance by a wireless remote. Images could be received and recorded from a nearby house or a parked car, police said.
Officers additionally discovered a wristband device similar to a watch capable of recording images.
Police seized computer equipment and video tapes that allegedly depict the accused sexually assaulting young victims.
Dean, 24, was charged earlier this week with sexual assault, sexual interference, invitation to sexual touching for allegedly having "inappropriate sexual relationships" with two girls under the age of 12.
Dean was described as an active member of the Salvation Army church in Bowmanville. Church spokesperson Capt. Miriam Stevens told reporters Wednesday that the church is "shocked and horrified" by the allegations.
"Our primary focus continues to be the welfare of the children involved," Stevens said.
Dean has been charged with two counts of making child pornography, possession of child pornography and voyeurism.
Police fear other children may be involved in this case.
Investigators ask anyone with information to contact Det. Randy Norton or Det. Andy Bussanich at 905 579-1520 ext. 5363. Anonymous tips can be made to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).
With a report from CTV's Jim Junkin and files from The Canadian Press
