Multi-jurisdictional investigation into alleged online exploitation and harassment; two men charged

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Friday, May 29, 2026, 10:00 a.m.

(Ottawa) — The Ottawa Police Service (OPS) has charged two men following a multi-jurisdictional investigation involving technology-facilitated sexual violence.

After receiving a report of harmful online content depicting the victim, investigators quickly launched a thorough, trauma-informed and victim-centred investigation.

The investigation focused on allegations of criminal harassment and the online exploitation of women, including the alleged misuse of emerging technologies to create and distribute harmful sexual content without consent. This includes but is not limited to AI deepfakes. As the investigation progressed, investigators determined that the impact extended beyond a single complainant and crossed jurisdictional boundaries.

Stephen Lowe, 60, of Maitland, Nova Scotia, is charged with:

• Harassment by combination of prohibited conduct (25 counts)
• Uttering Threats (25 counts)
• Publish/Possess obscene material for distribution (25 counts)
• Print/publish/possess to publish child sexual abuse material (2 counts) 
• Import/sell/distribute, etc. child sexual abuse material (2 counts)

He was arrested on February 12, 2026, and remains in custody.

Gregry Van Beek, 38, of West Nipissing, Ontario, is charged with:

• Harassment by watching and besetting (2 counts)
• Conspiracy to commit an indictable offence (1 count)
• Uttering threats (2 counts)
• Publish intimate image without consent (2 counts)

He was arrested on May 2, 2026, and remains in custody.

Victims of technology-facilitated sexual violence often experience significant emotional and psychological impacts, and investigators worked throughout the investigation to prioritize victim safety, privacy, and support.

This case highlights the growing challenges posed by technology-facilitated sexual violence and the evolving nature of online harms. The Ottawa Police Service continues to invest in investigative expertise, specialized training, and partnerships to support effective responses to these complex investigations.

As the matter is before the courts and subject to a publication ban, the OPS is unable to provide additional information at this time.

Anyone with information related to this investigation, or who believes they may have been affected, is asked to contact the Central Criminal Investigations Section at 613-236-1222, extension 5166 or email [email protected].

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