Ottawa parents and youth sport organizations across Ontario are facing a troubling reminder this week about the limits of court-ordered protections, after Markham police announced new charges against a man who allegedly coached children despite being legally barred from doing so.
Garth Morris, a Markham man facing existing sexual assault charges, had been released on bail conditions that explicitly prohibited him from having contact with anyone under the age of 16. He was also banned from attending schools, parks, and community centres — the very spaces where children spend much of their time.
Despite those restrictions, police allege Morris went ahead and coached youth anyway, in direct breach of those conditions.
What Police Are Saying
York Regional Police confirmed the new breach-of-conditions charges against Morris, which come on top of his original sexual assault allegations that remain before the courts. Investigators have not disclosed which sport or program Morris was coaching, but the case underscores how individuals with outstanding criminal charges can still find their way into positions of trust with children.
The situation raises uncomfortable questions about oversight — not just in Markham, but in communities across the region, including Ottawa.
Why Ottawa Families Should Pay Attention
While this case unfolded in Markham, it has direct relevance for Ottawa parents. Thousands of children across the city participate in youth sports leagues, community programs, and recreational clubs every season. Most reputable organizations require coaches and volunteers to complete a Police Record Check — including a Vulnerable Sector Check — before stepping onto a field or into a gym.
But as this case illustrates, a clean background check at the time of hiring doesn't account for charges that come later. Organizations have no automatic way of knowing when a volunteer or coach has been arrested, charged, or had bail conditions imposed after their initial screening.
What Organizations and Parents Can Do
Child safety advocates recommend that youth organizations go beyond one-time screening. Practical steps include:
- Requiring coaches and volunteers to self-disclose any new criminal charges as a condition of continued involvement
- Building in periodic re-screening — at least annually for those working closely with minors
- Creating a culture where parents feel empowered to ask questions about who is supervising their children
- Encouraging open conversations with kids about appropriate and inappropriate behaviour from adults in authority
Parents can also take initiative by staying engaged at practices and games, getting to know coaches personally, and reporting anything that feels off to both the organization and police.
The Bigger Picture
Court conditions are only effective when they are enforced — and when the people around the accused are aware they exist. This case is a reminder that the justice system can set limits, but communities need to be active partners in upholding them.
Anyone with information about bail condition breaches in Ontario can contact their local police service or reach Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).
Source: Global News Ottawa
