Crown in Quebec opposes bail for alleged pedophiles

MONTREAL – A bail hearing began in Montreal on Tuesday for seven of the 14 men charged in an alleged juvenile pornography ring.

The Crown opposed their release and the case is expected to resume Wednesday.

One of the 14 waived his right to a bail hearing, as did another last week.

Details of Tuesday’s proceedings cannot be released because of a publication ban.

The five other accused were freed last week under a slew of conditions.

The 14, who are aged between 27 and 74, face various charges, including possession and distribution of child pornography between 2003 and last month.

Police are also seeking a 15th suspect, Jessy Giroux, 32, who is believed to be outside the country. Giroux was living in Toronto, although his alleged crimes took place in Montreal.

Authorities allege the accused used online discussion forums to exchange information about their sexual experiences with children and to talk about what tactics to use and where to go to sexually abuse them.

They were arrested following a three-year investigation by Quebec provincial police and the RCMP.