TORONTO — Gerard McGilly was arrested and charged last October with luring a child under 18, sexual exploitation, making sexually explicit material available to a child, possession of child pornography and making and accessing child pornography.
The charges were laid after a victim came forward.
On November 30, McGilly was arrested and charged again after two more victims came forward.
“We are alleging that there was inappropriate communication and contact between the suspect and the victims,” Detective Sergeant Paul Krawczyk said, at a news conference at police headquarters. “That led to the sexually explicit charges.”
The Bishop Allen Academy teacher was scheduled to make a court appearance on December 4 at Old City Hall.
Krawczyk dismissed rumors that the original charges against McGilly have been withdrawn.
“There have been recent rumours at the school where McGilly used to teach,” said Krawczyk. “I want to make it clear that this is not true. Nothing has changed and Mr. McGilly continues to face those charges along with these new ones.”
Krawczyk said every sexual assault is traumatic.
“But instances involving allegations against people who are in positions of trust and authority are particularly heinous and shocking and resonate deeply within the community,” he said. “We understand this is a difficult time for the school and students. We also know that there may be more victims who are reluctant to come forward. We had some contact us at the office and state that they weren’t ready to come forward.”
He said it is every survivor’s choice to share their story.
“Please know that you are not alone,” Krawczyk said. “We will support you regardless of whether you choose to give a statement or not. Your emotional, social and physical wellbeing are the most important things right now. Likewise, if you are a witness in this matter, come forward so that you may support those who are struggling with what happened to them. We are here when you are ready.”
