A former elementary school teacher from Fergus is scheduled to go to trial this fall to face child pornography charges.
Two dates have been set for the trial against Darwin Harrison beginning Dec. 19. The second date set aside is March 31 of next year.
Harrison was arrested on Apr. 13, 2023, according to the Ontario College of Teachers (OTC).
He is facing charges of possessing child pornography, making child pornography available and accessing child pornography.
Guelph police did not release his name at the time of the arrest. When GuelphToday inquired, a police spokesperson referenced an arrest following a two-month investigation, which included a search warrant being executed at a Guelph apartment in February 2023.
According to the OCT website, Harrison’s certificate of qualification and registration was shifted to a status of inactive and non-practising on Apr. 20.
He was listed as a long-term occasional teacher at J.D. Hogarth Public School in Fergus.
The Upper Grand District School Board released a statement shortly after his arrest, confirming Harrison wasn’t actively at work and were not able to discuss details of personnel matters.
"We understand that some in the community may have questions regarding the charges reported, however we are unable to discuss matters involving police investigations," said board spokesperson Heather Loney in May 2023. "All questions about the investigation and charges must be directed to Guelph police.
"The safety of all students is always our top priority."
A publication ban is in place on pre-trial evidence presented in the case.
