A trusted member of the Sherwood Park community has been arrested and charged by the Alberta Law Enforcement Response Team’s (ALERT) Internet Child Exploitation (ICE) Unit.

ICE began investigating after a tip from the United States Department of Homeland Security in March 2020 suggesting an unknown suspect, possibly working in law enforcement, was involved in online child sexual exploitation.

Richard Adamsky, 32, was arrested on Wednesday, April 1 at his home in Sherwood Park and was charged with making, distributing and possessing child pornography.

Adamsky worked as a civilian employee, holding the title of Emergency Communications Officer, with the Edmonton Police Service and also volunteered with Scouts Canada as a Scout leader in Sherwood Park.

An email to parents from Brian Cottell, group commissioner of the 169th Glen Allan Scout Group, which was sent anonymously to the Sherwood Park News said; “Adamsky was immediately terminated from any Scouts Canada involvement and specifically any involvement with the 196th Glen Allen Scout Group.”

Cottell stated that his access to any/all media and information systems employed by the local group, Northern Lights Council and Scouts Canada was permanently discontinued.

The email said any parents that needed to talk with the Group Commissioner of the 169th could contact them but asked that they not speculate on what the investigation and charges may or may not involve, adding rumours and innuendo would not be helpful.

“At this point in the investigation there is no reason to believe that any activities of Mr. Adamsky’s led to harm to any children, scouting participants or otherwise,” Cottell said in the email. “On that point, should you feel there was any inappropriate/illegal activity by Mr. Adamsky with your child or any other child, to contact S/Sg.t. Zaparyniuk.”

ICE said there is currently no information to suggest he offended on any children but are encouraging anyone with information about the case to come forward and contact local police or report it to cybertip.ca.

Investigators are set to do a complete forensic analysis of computers and electronic devices seized during the investigation.

Adamsky was released on bail and has been ordered to abide by a number of court-imposed conditions, which include not possessing any electronic device. He is also not allowed to seek or obtain employment or volunteer in any position that involves being in a position of trust or authority towards children.

Adamsky is scheduled to make his first court appearance on Wednesday, June 10.

tdosser@postmedia.com

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