KL Hockey in Kawartha Lakes provides summer programming for kids in July and August, focusing on delivering top-notch experiences both on and off the ice. However, the camp faced scrutiny this summer due to employing Bradley Gibbs, a Durham Regional Police officer who recently admitted to assaulting children. Gibbs, who pleaded guilty to the charges in April, served as a lead instructor at the camp.
Following inquiries by CBC News, Gibbs chose to resign from his position at the camp, where he was recognized as a coach and mentor in the Kawartha Lakes community. The camp’s leadership informed parents that they had supported Gibbs during a personal legal issue in the past year but did not disclose whether they were aware of his guilty pleas.
The case highlighted a gap in Ontario legislation as there are no mandatory requirements for summer camps to conduct background checks on staff working with children. The Ministry of the Solicitor General was urged to consider changing this law, prompting Premier Doug Ford’s office to announce plans for mandatory criminal background checks for summer camps.
The Ontario Camps Association mandates criminal record checks for its accredited members, but membership is voluntary. KL Hockey Camp is not part of this association, and thus, it is not obligated to adhere to vetting standards set by the OCA.
Gibbs, still employed by Durham Regional Police, has been reassigned to an administrative role pending the outcome of his criminal case. A legal expert noted the necessity for legislation requiring camps to perform vulnerable sector checks on staff working with vulnerable groups like children.
Parents were advised to inquire about camp staff vetting procedures, as the lack of legislated standards leaves room for individual camp discretion. While OCA accreditation signifies a higher standard, parents should review the OCA standards document to make informed decisions when selecting camps for their children.