Review of contractor for Kelowna sex offender still ongoing

A BC Crown agency’s contractor is still under review nearly two years after a Kelowna sex offender cornered a young girl in a bathroom while under supervision.

Taylor Dueck was on probation and barred from contact with minors when he cornered the 11-year-old at a Kelowna equestrian facility. The incident prompted public outcry and criticism over the lack of warning to the public that he was released to Kelowna in the first place.

Meanwhile, a contractor for Community Living BC was tasked with supervising the convicted sex offender. The employee said they lost track of time and waited outside for Dueck to leave the barn, knowing children were arriving soon.

During Dueck’s trial, the employee’s name was protected under a publication ban. They were working for Personal Lifestyle Support, which is contracted to the Crown agency.

Community Living BC said the contractor was put under review shortly after the incident in early 2024.

Dueck has since been sentenced and released to the Kamloops area and the province has reviewed its policies for informing the public when offenders are released. But Community Living BC says it is still reviewing its contract with Personal Lifestyle Support.

“When a provider is under review it means they cannot take on new contracts, and are subject to enhanced scrutiny, until the review is completed,” a Community Living BC spokesperson said in an emailed response.

Dueck, now in his 30s, has also since filed a lawsuit against the province, suing over alleged treatment while in the foster care system. The lawsuit is ongoing and his claims haven’t been proven.