The operators of a New Brunswick summer camp fired an employee and contacted authorities immediately after learning of an alleged sexual assault involving a minor. The United Church of Canada owns Camp Ta Wa Si, located east of Moncton. Executive minister Rev. Faith March MacCuish says the church is deeply concerned by the report.

The Investigation and Arrest

According to a report by CBC News, the New Brunswick RCMP received a report on August 24 regarding a sexual assault against a youth. The incident allegedly involved a cook at the summer camp in Johnston Point. Police arrested 46 year old Jennifer Colleen Abbott on September 8. Authorities charged her with sexual assault, sexual interference, and indecent exposure to a person under 16. Abbott received a release with conditions and will return to provincial court on October 7. These allegations remain untested in court.

Arrest at Local School

Police arrested Abbott at Port Elgin Regional School. The school website lists a Jennifer Abbott as an educational assistant.

Community Response

The Anglophone East School District notified families at Port Elgin Regional and Tantramar Regional High schools. The district confirmed the individual mentioned in the RCMP release has not returned to work since the arrest. The district also noted that all employees must complete criminal record and vulnerable sector checks.

March MacCuish emphasized the camp is cooperating fully with the RCMP and the New Brunswick Department of Social Development. “Incidents involving the alleged harm of a child or youth are taken with the utmost seriousness,” March MacCuish wrote. “Our care and concern are with the young person involved and their family.”

Police Seek Additional Information

The New Brunswick RCMP sexual violence investigative unit now leads the case. RCMP spokesperson Hans Ouellette says investigators are searching for other complainants. “Now that we have had a courageous individual come forward,” Ouellette said, he urged others to do the same. If you have information, whether you are a witness or a victim, the RCMP encourages you to contact local police.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Camp Ta Wa Si located?

The camp is located in Johnston Point, about 70 kilometres east of Moncton on the Northumberland Strait.

What charges does the accused face?

Authorities charged the accused with sexual assault, sexual interference, and indecent exposure to a person under 16.

Who should I contact if I have information about this case?

The RCMP encourages anyone with information to contact their local police detachment.