An Edmonton educator has been arrested at Edmonton International Airport on serious charges related to child sexual abuse material, concluding a months-long manhunt that stretched across international borders.
Jimmy Buena, who previously taught at St. Oscar Romero Catholic High School in west Edmonton, was taken into custody on April 15, 2026, after authorities believe he fled to the Philippines in 2025.
The Alberta Law Enforcement Response Teams (ALERT) issued a warrant for Buena's arrest in June 2025. He now faces charges including making, accessing, possessing, and transmitting child pornography.
Swift Investigation Leads to Arrest
Investigators allege that Buena distributed child sexual abuse materials through Facebook, prompting the criminal investigation that ultimately led to the warrant and his eventual apprehension.
"He was arrested on April 15, 2026, and has since been released from custody," an ALERT spokesperson confirmed to media outlets Monday. The spokesperson added that no additional charges related to fleeing the country have been laid at this time.
School Community Notified
The Edmonton Catholic School Division moved quickly to inform parents and guardians at St. Oscar Romero Catholic High School following the arrest. A letter sent to the school community stated that there was no evidence suggesting any of Buena's students were involved in the alleged crimes.
The school division has not released further details about the educator's employment status or tenure at the institution.
Court Appearance Scheduled
Buena is scheduled to make his next court appearance on June 18, 2026. The case represents a significant development in child protection efforts across Alberta, highlighting the reach of law enforcement in pursuing individuals accused of exploiting minors.
This report is based on information provided by the Alberta Law Enforcement Response Teams and the Edmonton Catholic School Division. WestNet News will continue to cover developments in this case as they become available.
Original reporting by Emma Zhao, CBC Edmonton. Visit CBC Edmonton for additional coverage.