KL Hockey in Kawartha Lakes provides day and overnight activities for children during July and August with a commitment to offering top-notch experiences both on and off the ice, as stated on its website. However, the camp faced controversy this summer as one of its main instructors, Bradley Gibbs, a Durham Regional Police officer, admitted guilt to charges of assaulting children in April. While specific details are restricted due to a court ban, Gibbs, described as an active coach in the region, voluntarily stepped down following inquiries made by CBC News.
In response, camp leadership disclosed 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 the rationale behind retaining him. Notably, there is no existing Ontario legislation mandating summer camps to conduct comprehensive background checks on their staff. Following public concern, Premier Doug Ford’s office announced intentions to enforce mandatory criminal background checks for summer camp employees.
The Ontario Camps Association (OCA) mandates its 400 accredited members to screen staff with criminal record checks. However, since OCA membership is optional, camps like KL Hockey are not bound by these standards. The camp’s director, Amanda Tayles, emphasized Gibbs taking accountability for his actions publicly and affirmed the camp’s commitment to a safe and positive environment for campers.
Gibbs, who remains employed by Durham Regional Police Services in an administrative role pending sentencing in September, expressed regret in a letter to camp families and emphasized his decision to distance himself from camp duties. Despite the lack of legislative requirements, legal experts advocate for mandatory vulnerable sector checks for camp staff, especially when dealing with vulnerable groups.
The absence of regulated vetting protocols for summer camps underscores a significant gap, according to legal professionals. While OCA sets stringent standards for member camps, non-affiliated camps like KL Hockey may not adhere to similar screening measures. Parents are advised to inquire about staff vetting procedures at camps and review industry standards to make informed decisions regarding their children’s summer camp experiences.