Calgary man accused of luring, threatening young Alberta girls online

The ALERT logo is seen in a meeting room in Calgary. (CTV News)

Authorities say a Calgary man has been charged with child luring as well as other sex offences after several young girls alleged were victimized via social media.

The Alberta Law Enforcement Response Team’s (ALERT) Internet Child Exploitation (ICE) unit arrested 23-year-old Malik Buccini-Small on March 17.

“We’ve conducted a complex investigation into the activities of an individual who has been identified as luring, and sexually engaging with children online,” said Gordon MacDonald, a staff sergeant Southern Alberta Internet Child Exploitation Unit.

Police took him into custody after three girls came forward.

• The information you need to know, sent directly to you: Download the CTV News App

It’s believed that Buccini-Small contacted young girls using social media applications and made demands or threats for sexual content.

Police say one complainant was so concerned about her safety that she called 911.

Buccini-Small is charged with 21 offences in relation to the three victims, but police are concerned there could be more victims.

“Our priority is to protect children and help those that have been victimized,” said Cst. Mackenzie Jordan, with ALERT ICE, in a Tuesday news release.

“We have digital evidence that points to other victims, and we are hoping they can come forward and share their information with police.”

Police say the complainants live in Red Deer and Morinville, Alta. Their ages range from seven to 15 years old.

Police say his online usernames included “iggypup” and “wakanda4ever” as well as aliases “MJ” and “007” on various social media platforms.

Police said Buccini-Small is also involved in coaching youth sports and was working as an assistant coach with a girls’ hockey team in Calgary.

It is unclear if any athletes were targeted.

He is expected in court on March 24.