Alberta RCMP continue investigation into alleged child abuse

The RCMP Serious Crimes Branch says it has concluded a long investigation into allegations of child abuse dating back nearly two decades, but is concerned there could be more victims.

Police say the investigation into reported physical and sexual abuse in Edson has led to two people being charged for crimes allegedly committed between 2005 and 2011.

On March 21, 2024, 51-year-old Jimmy Allen Fransen of Fort McMurray was arrested and charged with sexual assault, sexual assault with a weapon, sexual interference with a child under the age of 17, sexual exploitation, making and possessing child pornography and failure to provide the necessaries of life.

He was released on bail with conditions that restrict contact with kids.

Fransen is set to appear in court on May 7.

On April 8, 43-year-old Sherina Maria Handsor of Sandy Beach was arrested and charged with assault causing bodily harm, assault with a weapon, forcible confinement, and failure to provide the necessaries on life.

Following the initial arrest of Fransen, RCMP got more information on unrelated allegations of child sexual abuse out of Fort McMurray between 2017 and 2023.

As a result Fransen and 45-year-old Brenda Disher (also known as Brenda Fransen) were charged with making, distribution, and possession of child pornography, sexual assault, sexual interference involving a child, sexual exploitation, and trafficking a person under the age of 18.

The pair are set to appear in Fort McMurray court on those charges on April.

Information received during the investigation by police suggests that there may be other victims or individuals who may have information on the involvement of Fransen, Disher, and Handsor in crimes against children.

In an effort to help potential victims and witnesses, RCMP are releasing photos of the three people.

Anyone with information about these crimes or those responsible is asked to call RCMP at 780-509-3290 or tip anonymously through CrimeStoppers.