A Squamish firefighter is facing charges of possession and distribution of child pornography.
John Taavo Martin, 43-years-old, has been charged with one count of possession of child pornography and one count of distribution of child pornography.
In a press release, Squamish RCMP said a search warrant in June led to his arrest. The investigation was a result of information received from the National Centre for Missing and Exploited Children.
The investigation revealed the man was a serving Squamish Firefighter. After his arrest, Martin was released on conditions. His next court appearance is in late November.
Police said no further details will be released as the case is before the courts.
District of Squamish released the following statement:
“The RCMP has informed the District of Squamish of criminal charges laid against a Squamish resident, John (Taavo) Martin. Mr. Martin is an employee of the District of Squamish. He was placed on leave from his duties as a firefighter within Squamish Fire Rescue upon his arrest on June 27, 2019. His pay and benefits have ceased now that charges have been laid, pending the outcome of the court process.
Public safety is the District’s absolute top priority and criminal record checks are required for all firefighters of Squamish Fire Rescue. We are a close-knit community – both within our organization and within the greater community, and the news of these serious allegations will be very difficult to comprehend by many. We hope that the community will offer support and privacy to Taavo’s family through this very difficult time.”
Parm says
Unbelievable and frankly, disgusting. How can a professional and responsible person commit such a shameful, heinous crime. DOS did a good job of relieving him of his duties. Hope he is prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.