YMCA issues statement about recent arrest of employee

YMCA Sudbury learned from local police on May 24 that employee David Ward had been charged with accessing and possession of child pornography.

The police notified YMCA Sudbury prior to making a public announcement of his arrest. This news came as a complete shock to us.

Ward has been employed with YMCA Sudbury since 1992 and his current title is Director of Health, Fitness and Recreation. There have been no complaints or incidents of concern about Ward during his employment.

His past responsibilities have included directing John Island Camp, from 1994 to 2001. In his previous and current roles, he has had administrative responsibility for children's and adults programs. He has had no direct program contact with children for more than five years.

Ward is now on a leave of absence without pay.

YMCA Sudbury has rigorous checks that take place when new employees (both full-time and part-time) are hired. We obtain police checks and we also obtain employment histories and conduct employment reference checks. Program volunteers also undergo police checks.

This practice has been in place for approximately 12 years. In addition, we periodically do random police checks. Our records indicate that a police check was carried out on David Ward in 2002, with no areas of concern that arose.

YMCA Sudbury will co-operate fully with the Greater Sudbury Police Service in any further investigation that may take place with respect to the charges laid against Ward.