KL Hockey Camp in Kawartha Lakes operates day and overnight sessions for kids during the summer months, aiming to provide top-notch experiences both on and off the ice, as stated on its website. However, for a significant period this summer, a key instructor at the camp had recently admitted to assaulting children.
Bradley Gibbs, a Durham Regional Police officer, pleaded guilty in April to two counts of assaulting children he knew, as confirmed by his lawyer. Due to a court publication ban, further details cannot be disclosed by CBC News.
Despite being referred to as an “active coach and mentor” on the camp’s website, Gibbs voluntarily stepped down following inquiries from CBC News. The camp informed parents via email that they had supported Gibbs during a personal legal issue over the past year, without specifying if they were aware of his guilty pleas.
Ontario lacks legislation mandating summer camps to screen their staff. While the Ontario Camps Association (OCA) mandates criminal record checks for its 400+ accredited members, membership is voluntary, allowing non-member camps like KL Hockey Camp to forego staff vetting standards.
A statement from the camp’s director, Amanda Tayles, highlighted that Gibbs had taken accountability for his actions publicly. Gibbs, who did not respond to CBC News’ request for comment, is set to be sentenced in September. Currently, he remains employed at Durham Regional Police Services in an administrative role pending the outcome of the legal proceedings.
One of Gibbs’ victims, now an adult, expressed concerns about Gibbs’ involvement at KL Hockey Camp. The absence of mandated checks for camp staff in Ontario was flagged as a significant gap by legal experts, suggesting the need for legislation requiring vulnerable sector checks for camp employees.
The camp director acknowledged Gibbs’ departure due to recent attention on his personal legal matter, emphasizing the camp’s support during his challenging period. While Gibbs took responsibility for his actions in a letter to parents, the email did not explicitly mention his criminal charges or guilty pleas.
Parents are advised to inquire about staff vetting processes at summer camps, given the absence of regulatory requirements. Understanding the OCA standards can aid parents in selecting a camp that aligns with their expectations of safety and quality.