London police cruiser. (File photo by Miranda Chant, Blackburn News)London police cruiser. (File photo by Miranda Chant, Blackburn News)
London

London Cop Charged With Sexual Assault

A London police officer has been suspended with pay after being charged with sexual assault.

Police say the 41-year-old officer is accused of sexually assaulting a woman he had been in a relationship with. The incident happened Friday, November 17 while the officer was off-duty and was reported to police on Wednesday, November 22.

“It is always very disappointing when an officer is charged with a criminal offence. It is disheartening for our members and we understand it is for the community as well,” said Deputy Chief Steve Williams in a statement released by police. "While it is not appropriate to comment on details of the investigation or allegations that are before the courts, I will say that trust is the foundation of a police service’s relationship with the community it serves. Breaching that trust is simply not acceptable and will not be tolerated.”

Because the victim had been involved in a relationship with the officer, his name will not be released in order to protect her identity. Police say he has been with the London Police Service for two years. The suspension is with pay in accordance with the Police Services Act.

The Special Investigations Unit has been contacted, but it has not invoked its mandate.

Police say the officer was arrested Wednesday night and released from custody with conditions. He is to appear in court January 4, 2018.

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