In May of 2025, detectives from the Niagara Regional Police Service’s (NRPS) Internet Child Exploitation Unit (ICE) commenced an investigation into the historical sexual exploitation of children.
The investigation, which involved child sexual abuse material (CSAM), led to the identification of a suspect. Further inquiries revealed additional evidence and multiple victims, with offences dating back to 2007.
Working alongside the NRPS Technological Crimes Unit, ICE detectives conducted a joint investigation that resulted in the arrest of two individuals:
Justin Murray Wayne LEE, 49 years, of Welland, Ontario Thalia Rachelle HISCOE, 49 years, of Wallaceburg, Ontario
Charges
Justin Murray Wayne LEE has been charged with:
Sexual Assault – Section 271, Criminal Code of Canada Sexual Interference – Section 153(b), Criminal Code of Canada Making Child Pornography – Section 163.1(2), Criminal Code of Canada Possession of Child Pornography – Section 163.1(4), Criminal Code of Canada
Thalia Rachelle HISCOE has been charged with:
Sexual Assault – Section 271, Criminal Code of Canada Sexual Interference – Section 153(b), Criminal Code of Canada
Both LEE and HISCOE remain in custody pending a bail hearing which scheduled for Wednesday, August 27, 2025, at the Robert S.K. Welch Courthouse, in the City of St. Catharines.
Detectives have reason to believe there may be additional victims. Anyone with information is asked to contact investigators at 905-688-4111, option 3, extension 1009128.
Online platforms that allow like-minded users to engage with minors, create, share, and store Child Sexual Abuse Material (CSAM) are prevalent on the Internet. Offenders who attempt to lure children behind anonymous accounts on different platforms can be identified and will be held accountable for their actions.
For more information on how parents and guardians can keep children safe online CLICK HERE
The Niagara Regional Police Service is a member of the Provincial Strategy to Protect Children from Sexual Abuse and Exploitation on the Internet and conducts investigations into Internet Child Exploitation Offences in partnership with Ontario Police Services and International Partners. This investigative initiative has been made possible by a grant from the Ministry of the Solicitor General.
Members of the public who wish to provide information anonymously are encouraged to contact Crime Stoppers of Niagara online or by calling 1-800-222-8477. Crime Stoppers offers cash rewards to persons who contact the program with information that leads to an arrest.