KL Hockey in Kawartha Lakes provides day and overnight programs for kids during July and August, aiming to offer top-notch experiences both on and off the ice, according to its website. However, this summer, a key instructor at the camp was Bradley Gibbs, a Durham Regional Police officer who recently admitted to assaulting children. Gibbs pleaded guilty to two assault charges involving children he knew, as confirmed by his lawyer in April. Due to a court publication ban, further specifics cannot be disclosed by CBC News.
Despite being described as a valued coach and mentor on the camp’s website, Gibbs voluntarily stepped down following inquiries by CBC News and the subsequent email sent to parents. The camp informed parents that they had supported Gibbs through a personal legal issue over the past year but did not clarify whether they were aware of his guilty pleas or why he remained at the camp despite them.
As of now, there is no Ontario law mandating summer camps to screen their staff who interact with children. However, after public attention on this matter, Premier Doug Ford’s office announced plans to make criminal background checks compulsory for summer camps. The move was spurred by the unacceptable employment of a known criminal at a children’s camp, as stated by government spokesperson Hannah Jensen.
The Ontario Camps Association (OCA) requires criminal record checks for its 400+ accredited members, but membership is voluntary. Camps like KL Hockey that are not part of OCA are not obligated to adhere to any specific screening standards. The camp’s director, Amanda Tayles, mentioned that Gibbs has taken responsibility for his actions publicly and that their primary focus remains on providing a safe and positive environment for campers.
Gibbs, who is currently redeployed within the Durham Regional Police Services, is awaiting sentencing in September. Legal experts point out the significant gap in legislation concerning summer camp staff vetting, emphasizing the need for mandatory vulnerable sector checks for employees working with vulnerable groups like children. While the Ministry of Education mandates child-care license holders for children under four to conduct vulnerable sector checks, camps for older children are not covered by this requirement.
Despite the absence of specific laws, experts stress the importance of camps implementing thorough vetting processes for staff working with children. Parents are advised to inquire about camp staff vetting procedures and consider reputable camps that prioritize child safety. In cases where parents have concerns about staff members, their options may be limited due to the lack of legislation, but they are encouraged to voice their concerns and make informed decisions for their children’s well-being.