Paul Goodman, a teaching assistant at Hamilton Central School, faces many related charges. Police say investigators found “child pornography” on April 4 after computers were confiscated from Saint Ann Street School on March 24. “It was found in a device,” said actor Det. Sgt. Ryan Hashimoto, does not give more details about the device. Police say they have identified a victim as a student at St. Ann under six years old. Police say there may be more casualties. Goodman is also the leader of Scouts Canada, according to a police statement. Hamilton-Wentworth Catholic District School Board President (HWCDSB) Pat Daley said in a statement that the board was “shocked and deeply disturbed” by the allegations against Goodman, who works as a teaching assistant in St. Louis. Ann from September 2021. “Immediately after that, Mr. Goodman was released on unpaid leave,” said Daly. HWCDSB told The Spectator that Goodman was hired by the board in 2014, but would not say where he worked before 2021. The board also declined to say how many students at St. Ann may have been interacting with Goodman this school year. Goodman faces three counts, including possession of child pornography, creation of child pornography, and possession of child pornography. He is currently in custody, according to police. Standing outside Agia If waiting for the bell to ring Tuesday afternoon, Helder Brito said the fact that a crime went unnoticed at his daughter’s primary school was a “red flag”. “If it just happened… and no one saw it or someone saw it and said nothing, you will be worried,” said Brito, whose 10-year career began in St. Louis. Ann about a week ago. Scouts Canada spokeswoman Kayleigh Kanoza said in an email that the organization was “concerned” by the allegations against Goodman, who has been a leader since 2000. “Sir. Goodman’s subscription was terminated immediately,” he said. Scouts Canada has contacted all parents to inform them of the charges and offer support, Kanoza said. Kanoza said Goodman met the “strict” training and control requirements of the organization. “Individual activities between volunteers and young people are not allowed,” Kanoza said. The investigation, which was referred by the National Center for Child Crime Exploitation, is ongoing. The police ask anyone who has information to contact the internet operator at 905-540-5247.
