Toronto police officer who had sex with youth group member, pleaded guilty

Const. Kevin Ward activity came to light after he attended 22 Division Rovers, a programme by the Toronto Police Service, Humber College and Scouts Canada.

Ward, who was one of the founding members of the programme, stated to have a sexual relationship with one of the members of the group.

He pleaded guilty for carrying out an inappropriate relationship with a participant who has been referred to as "CH" in the police document.

The agreed statement of facts stated Ward went into a tent where "CH" was present along with another female participant who has been referred to as "LQ".

"LQ" needed to change and Ward had turned his back to her. Later he slept with the women and also developed a sexual relationship with "CH".

Though Service prosecutor Insp. Domenic Sinopoli said the sexual relationship was "consensual", he believes it to be a power balance too.

"To me, this is a case of trust, professionalism and moral integrity" he said, as he was quoted by Toronto Star.

Defence lawyer Gary Lewly highlighted Ward's good work history at the tribunal.

Ward has also pleaded guilty for showing videos of activities by police to the female participants of the group.

According to the media report, regretting for bringing "negative attention" on police force and scouts, Ward said: "I can assure you that I won’t be back here."

(Reporting by Suman Das)

Image: Creative Commons.