Peel Regional Police are currently investigating allegations of child abuse at Robert Land Academy, a military-style school that operated in Ontario’s Niagara Region from 1978 until its closure in 2025. The inquiry is being led by the special victims unit, according to a statement released on Monday.
Current Investigation into Allegations of Child Abuse
Police have reached out for information from anyone who might have knowledge of the alleged abuse at the academy. Individuals can contact the police directly or reach out to Peel Crime Stoppers if they have relevant information.
Background on Robert Land Academy
Robert Land Academy has been subject to numerous allegations from former students, who claim they suffered physical and emotional abuse, along with instances of sexual exploitation. In October, a gathering at Queen’s Park in Toronto saw former students and supporters call for enhanced regulations governing private schools in Ontario.
Peel Police were asked to take the lead in this investigation by the Niagara Regional Police Service. A spokesperson explained the request was made due to potential conflicts of interest, as some Niagara police officers had previously worked at the academy.
Legal Claims and School Closure
The inquiry follows a CBC Hamilton investigation that emerged prior to the school’s closure in June. Lawsuits alleging various forms of abuse date primarily back to the 1980s, 1990s, and early 2000s, with some claims extending into the 2010s. In response to one of these lawsuits, Robert Land Academy denied all allegations, arguing that if any abuse occurred, it was not the fault of the institution.
Additionally, the academy announced it was closing due to declining enrollment and rising operational costs, rather than the allegations of abuse. Recent bankruptcy filings indicate that the institution estimates needing approximately $135 million for legal claims against it.
Allegations of Abuse and Regulatory Concerns
The academy operated under a strict military regime, where students were referred to as “cadets” and wore military uniforms. While thousands of families entrusted their children to this boarding school over the years, allegations of extreme physical punishments have come to light.
- Some instructors had prior criminal convictions while employed at the academy during the 1990s and early 2000s.
- Private school staff are not mandated to undergo vulnerable-sector background checks, which would typically identify these convictions.
A group of around two dozen former students advocated for stricter oversight of private schools at Queen’s Park this past fall, highlighting gaps in regulatory practices.
Government Stance on Private School Regulation
In response to these calls for reform, Ontario’s Education Minister’s office indicated that the province’s regulatory involvement only extends to private schools seeking high school credit approval. Individuals who allege abuse or criminal activity were encouraged to contact the police directly.
This developing investigation highlights the urgent need for discussion regarding the safeguards in place for students in private educational institutions across Ontario.
