Program provides support to children and young victims in the court system
The Kristen French Child Advocacy Centre Niagara is marking one year of its Child Victim & Witness Program, while raising concerns about a growing number of online luring and exploitation cases involving young victims.
Since launching in 2025, the program has supported 127 cases involving 191 children and youth between the ages of three and 18.
The program provides dedicated support workers who guide families through the court process, attend court with young victims and help ensure their voices are heard.
The Centre says online luring cases are becoming increasingly complex, especially with the rise of artificial intelligence being used to create fake identities and manipulate images and videos.
Officials say the impact on young victims can be long-lasting, but the program works to remove feelings of shame and remind children they are not responsible for the actions of those who targeted them.
The Centre says consistent support helps young people feel believed, protected and supported while navigating the justice system.
(Written by: Brandon Warby)