Perth Resident Faces Charges of Child Sexual Offences

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

According to a news release from OPP issued Friday afternoon, police began their investigation into the accused man over the Labour Day weekend.

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

The alleged incidents occurred in Lanark County, which is why the provincial police force is handling the case, OPP spokesperson Bill Dickson told CBC.

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

None of the allegations have been proven in court.

After a bail hearing, Ryerson was released from custody. His next court date is scheduled for Nov. 25.

‘Rigorous screening’ in place

The OPP’s investigation continues “due to the individual’s potential access to other children,” according to the release.

In an email statement sent to CBC, the Children’s Aid Society of Ottawa said it’s aware of the charges and has been cooperating with the 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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