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Bail conditions set for Port Alberni teacher

Bail conditions have been set for Port Alberni teacher charged with child pornography
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Port Alberni RCMP are investigating an E J Dunn Elementary School teacher who has been charged with making child pornography.

An E J Dunn Elementary School teacher is under investigation after being caught by the BC Integrated Child Exploitation Unit (BC ICE) chatting online with an undercover investigator posing as a single mother with an eight-year-old daughter.

Daniel Oliver, 36, was arrested and subsequently charged with one count of making child pornography. He has been released from custody on bail with strict conditions.

An RCMP spokesperson said investigations began in May when the undercover agent was approached by Oliver in an online chat forum, known for child exploitation activity.

The BC ICE unit actively seeks out child predators using covert online techniques throughout British Columbia.

Oliver, who taught Grade 6 and 7 at E J Dunn Elementary School was arrested on June 9 by Port Alberni RCMP after search warrants were issued for several locations. He appeared in a Port Alberni Provincial Court on June 14 and was released on bail.

According to court documents, Oliver is accused of committing an offense of making or publishing child pornography sometime between May 30 and June 9, contrary to section 163.1(2) of the Criminal Code.

Greg Smyth, School District 70 superintendent, said the RCMP are conducting the investigation, which is ongoing at this time, and it’s not a school district investigation. Smyth said another teacher will be finishing the school year in place of Oliver.

“Our goal there is to support that individual and make sure students have a successful end to the school year,” Smyth said.

Under bail conditions, Oliver must reside with his father in Port Hardy, maintain a curfew between the hours of 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. and must not possess or use any computer, laptop, tablet, smartphone or any other electronic device capable of accessing the Internet.

In addition, Oliver must not possess any pornographic material and cannot seek, obtain or continue any employment whether or not it is paid employment or volunteer work that involves being in a position of authority towards anyone under the age of 18.

He cannot attend any public park or swimming area, daycare centre, school ground or play ground where persons under the age of 18 are present or could be expected to be present.

Oliver’s next court appearance is scheduled for July 13 at 9 a.m. in the Port Alberni Law Courts.