December 23, 2020
Mark Slapinski, with files from Ottawa Citizen
It’s one thing to get caught accessing images of child sexual exploitation.
It’s another to get caught, plead guilty and get to keep your job, especially when that job involves working for the Canadian Military.
James Fancy pleaded guilty to accessing child pornography in November 2020 but continues in his position as assistant operations officer at the Canadian Army Command and Staff College.
Capt. James Fancy of Belleville was arrested May 30, 2018 as part of efforts to crack down on child exploitation and pornography. Fancy, then 56, was charged by the Belleville Police Service with possession of child pornography and making child pornography available.
Armed Forces public affairs officer Capt. Derek Reid stated that the military does not approve of the use of child pornography. But when reporters from Ottawa Citizen asked about why Fancy is allowed to keep his job, Reid did not respond.
Kick his ass out! Dishonourable Discharge.
— Sue Platts (@sue_platts) December 23, 2020
Many Canadians were appalled to read the news, and have taken to Twitter to voice their disgust.
Not the only one
Another Canadian Forces member is also facing a child pornography charge. Last week, police in Victoria, B.C. charged the officer and cadet instructor with possession of child pornography.
Maj. Michael Ryan Tellier, 35, was arrested Sept. 30 when police searched his home and seized found images of child sexual abuse.
Central Saanich Police say a charge of possession of child pornography has been approved against Michael Ryan Tellier, who volunteered extensively with the 676 "Kittyhawk" Royal Canadian Air Cadets in North Saanich, & 89 Pacific Air Cadet Squadron in Victoria. #Saanich #yyj pic.twitter.com/e5nRVgeKGU
— CFAX1070 (@cfax1070) December 17, 2020
Tellier, who was commanding officer of a cadet squadron, was suspended from the cadet organization immediately after his arrest. A court appearance is scheduled for Jan. 11.