KL Hockey in Kawartha Lakes provides day and overnight programs for children during July and August with a commitment to delivering exceptional experiences both on and off the ice, according to information on its website. However, the camp faced controversy this summer as one of its main instructors, Bradley Gibbs, a Durham Regional Police officer, recently admitted guilt to charges of assaulting children. Gibbs, who pleaded guilty to two assault charges involving children known to him in April, decided to step down from his position at the camp following inquiries by CBC News.
Camp management informed parents that they had stood by Gibbs during his personal legal issues in the past year but did not disclose whether they were aware of his guilty pleas or the reasons for retaining him on staff. Notably, there is currently no specific Ontario legislation mandating summer camps to conduct thorough background checks on employees working with children. Following the publication of this story, Premier Doug Ford’s office stated that the government is planning to make criminal background checks compulsory for summer camps.
While the Ontario Camps Association (OCA) requires its accredited members to screen staff with criminal record checks, membership in the organization is voluntary. Hence, camps not affiliated with OCA, such as KL Hockey Camp, are not obligated to adhere to these standards. The camp’s director, Amanda Tayles, mentioned that Gibbs has taken responsibility for his actions publicly and emphasized their commitment to maintaining a safe and positive environment for campers.
Gibbs, who did not respond to CBC News for comments, is scheduled for sentencing in September while still employed in an administrative role at Durham Regional Police Services. The potential internal disciplinary actions against Gibbs within the police service may be influenced by the outcome of his criminal case.
Legal experts have highlighted the significant gap in legislation regarding screening requirements for summer camps in Ontario. Puneet Tiwari, an employment litigator, suggested that camps working with children should be mandated to conduct vulnerable sector checks on employees. These checks provide comprehensive background information, including details beyond a standard criminal record check, and are crucial for individuals working with vulnerable populations like children.
Parents have been advised to inquire about the vetting processes of camp staff, especially in light of the absence of specific regulations. While the OCA sets high standards for member camps, non-accredited camps like KL Hockey may not be subject to the same scrutiny. It is recommended that parents carefully review camp standards and practices to make informed decisions when selecting a camp for their children.
