Perth Resident Arrested for Offenses Against Child

The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) have charged a volunteer from the Children’s Aid Society of Ottawa with sexual offences against a minor.

As stated in an OPP news release on Friday afternoon, the investigation into the accused began over the Labour Day weekend.

Andrew Ryerson, 55, from Perth, Ont., was arrested on Sunday and faces charges including sexual assault of someone under 16, sexual interference, invitation to sexual touching, and two counts of distributing sexually explicit material to a person under 14.

The alleged events occurred in Lanark County, which is why provincial police are involved in the case, according to OPP spokesperson Bill Dickson speaking to CBC.

Ryerson had been spending “a great deal of time with a child and their family,” as noted in the release.

No allegations have been proven in court yet.

After a bail hearing, Ryerson was released from custody. He is scheduled to appear in court again on Nov. 25.

‘Rigorous screening’ in place

The investigation by OPP continues “due to the individual’s potential access to other children,” as mentioned in the release.

In an email statement sent to CBC, the Children’s Aid Society of Ottawa acknowledged awareness of the charges and indicated they have been cooperating with OPP.

“Rigorous screening and assessment processes are conducted for all volunteers, including vulnerable sector and child welfare history checks, to ensure the safety and wellbeing of the children, youth and families we serve,” according to the society’s statement.

“We are communicating with families that may have had contact with this individual to ensure they are supported during this time.”

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