A Vancouver Island man has been sentenced to 4.5 years in prison following a guilty plea in what authorities are describing as the most prolific voyeurism case ever prosecuted in Canada. Yin Yeung Derek Chan, 39, was sentenced on Thursday after investigators identified at least 652 women and girls as victims of his crimes.
The charges against Chan include surreptitiously recording individuals in locations where they had a reasonable expectation of privacy, recording for sexual purposes, the production of child pornography and the distribution of illegally obtained recordings. Following his sentencing, Chan has been added to the long-term sex offender registry.
Investigation and Impact
The investigation into Chan began in January 2024, after police discovered voyeuristic content being uploaded to social media from a location in Saanich. This was not Chan’s first offense; he had a prior conviction for voyeurism involving the filming of a woman in a Victoria-area mall change room.
The scope of the material seized by police reveals that victims were targeted at businesses, beaches, and through the windows of private residences throughout the Greater Victoria area. Saanich Deputy Police Chief Damian Kowalewich noted that the widespread dissemination of this content, which reached an international audience, has created a lasting impact on both the victims and the broader community.
What Happens Next
While Chan is now in custody, the legal and investigative processes continue. Because the material was shared internationally, authorities acknowledge that removing all traces of the content from the internet remains a significant challenge. It is likely that police will continue to work on formal removal requests for images that have appeared on websites globally.
as only 40 victims have been formally contacted thus far, additional individuals may come forward as the case gains further public attention. Anyone who suspects they may be among the hundreds of unidentified victims is encouraged to contact the Saanich Police Department at [email protected].
Frequently Asked Questions
What charges did Yin Yeung Derek Chan plead guilty to?
Chan pleaded guilty to multiple voyeurism-related charges, including recording people where they have an expectation of privacy, recording for sexual purposes, making child pornography, and publishing recordings obtained through criminal activity.
How did the investigation begin?
The Saanich Police Department began their investigation in January 2024 after discovering that voyeuristic photos and videos were being uploaded to social media from a location in Saanich.
What is the current status of the victims?
Police have identified at least 652 victims. To date, they have contacted 40 of those individuals, some of whom have provided victim impact statements to the court.
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