Burlington Senior Faces Multiple Child Pornography Charges After International Investigation
Burlington, ON — A 78-year-old man from Burlington is now facing more than a dozen charges, including making, possessing, and accessing child pornography, following the conclusion of a joint investigation earlier this week.
The Halton Regional Police Service’s Internet Child Exploitation Unit (ICE), working alongside the RCMP’s National Child Exploitation Coordination Centre and international partners in the Philippines, made the arrest on August 28, 2025. The accused, identified as Douglas Ridpath, has been charged with:
• Six counts of making child pornography
• Accessing child pornography
• Possession of child pornography
• Three counts of arranging or agreeing to a sexual offence against a child
• Two counts of indecent act
• Indecent exposure to a person under 16
• Two counts of sexual assault
• Two counts of sexual exploitation
Ridpath remains in custody pending a bail hearing.
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Legal and Community Implications
The scale and severity of the charges have raised deep concern in the community. Law enforcement indicates that more victims may be involved, and they are urging anyone with information to come forward. Those with potential leads are encouraged to contact Det. Const. Stephane Verreault of the HRPS ICE unit at 905-825-4747 ext. 8986, or submit tips anonymously via Crime Stoppers .
This case highlights the critical role of cross-border cooperation in dismantling digital exploitation networks and underscores the ongoing vulnerabilities children face in the digital age.
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Next Steps to Watch For
• Bail Hearing Outcome: Any unexpected developments could arise depending on whether bail is granted.
• Further Victim Reports: Investigators suspect additional victims may emerge—keeping community vigilance high is key.
• Impact on Community Conversation: This case may continue to shape local discourse around digital safety, especially for minors.
