KL Hockey, a summer camp in Kawartha Lakes providing day and overnight activities for kids in July and August, focuses on delivering top-notch experiences for campers both on and off the ice, according to its website. However, during several weeks this summer, one of the camp’s main instructors was a man who recently admitted guilt to charges of assaulting children.
Bradley Gibbs, a Durham Regional Police officer, acknowledged his guilt in April on two counts of assaulting children known to him, his attorney confirmed. Due to a court order restricting publication, CBC News cannot provide further specifics.
Although described as an active coach and mentor on the camp’s website, Gibbs resigned on Wednesday after a message was sent to parents following inquiries from CBC News to Gibbs and the camp. The camp disclosed to parents in the communication that they supported Gibbs through a personal legal issue for the past year. However, it remains unclear if they were aware of his guilty pleas and the reasons for his continued role.
Presently, there is no Ontario regulation mandating summer camps to conduct staff screenings. They are not obligated to obtain criminal record checks or more comprehensive vulnerable sector checks on their employees. Following the publication of the story, Premier Doug Ford’s office announced plans to make criminal background checks mandatory for summer camps.
The Ontario Camps Association requires its 400-plus accredited members to screen staff with criminal record checks. Nonetheless, membership in the organization is voluntary, allowing camps like KL Hockey Camp, not affiliated with the OCA, to forgo standard staff vetting practices.
Amanda Tayles, the camp director, stated that Gibbs has taken public responsibility for his actions. She emphasized the camp’s commitment to maintaining a safe and positive environment for campers. Gibbs, who did not respond to CBC News’ request for comment, is anticipated to face sentencing in September.
Despite the absence of legal requirements, Puneet Tiwari, an employment litigator, highlighted the necessity for summer camps to conduct vulnerable sector checks on staff working with vulnerable groups. Such checks provide additional information beyond criminal record checks and are essential when dealing with children.
Gibbs’ departure was announced following discussions with one of the victims, now an adult, who expressed concerns about Gibbs’ involvement at the camp. The victim, protected by a court order, emphasized the importance of vetting staff working with children, a sentiment echoed by Tiwari.
Parents are advised to inquire about camp staff vetting procedures, although it’s essential for camps to implement comprehensive screening measures to ensure child safety. Middlebrook from the Ontario Camps Association emphasized the importance of adherence to vetting standards for staff working with children.
In conclusion, the lack of legislated requirements for staff vetting at summer camps raises concerns, underscoring the need for improved regulations to safeguard children in such environments.