Pair of Essa males charged in abduction of minor following raid on home

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Posted September 2, 2026

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Nottawasaga OPP executed a search warrant at a residence in Essa early this morning as part of a child abduction investigation.

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The operation was led by the OPP Major Crime Unit, with assistance from the OPP Tactics and Rescue Unit (TRU) and the OPP Emergency Response Team (ERT), shortly before 5 am.

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As a result, two individuals were taken into custody without incident.

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Jason Demerchant, 41, of Essa Township, is charged with:

·      Abduction of person under 16 years of age;

·      Luring a person under 16 years of age by means of telecommunication;

·      Uttering threats - cause death or bodily harm;

·      Possession of weapon for dangerous purpose; and

·      Obstruct peace officer.

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Samuel Kelly, 20, of Essa is charged with:

·      Abduction of Person Under 16 years of age.

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Both of the accused parties were held pending a bail hearing.

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"The successful execution of this warrant reflects the OPP's commitment to protecting vulnerable persons and thoroughly investigating incidents involving children.

 

The investigation remains ongoing, and no further information will be provided at this time."