The chief of the Bridgewater, Nova Scotia police force has been placed on administrative leave following allegations of sexual assault, Global News has learned.
Scott Feener, deputy chief of the Bridgewater police confirmed on Monday that John Collyer, chief of the Bridgewater Police Service has been placed on leave by the police board August 18.
On August 15, the province’s Serious Incident Response Team (SiRT) announced they had launched an investigation into of a member of the Bridgewater police based on allegations of sexual assault and obstruction of justice.
“It’s a serious accusation and needs to be investigated,” Feener said.
Bridgewater Mayor David Walker says he is “very, very concerned” about the allegations, which first came to light earlier this month.
“It’s very difficult for Chief Collyer and his family. The SiRT investigation needs to run its course,” Walker said.
“We’re anxious to get what their findings are before we make any further comment.”
Ron MacDonald, director of SiRT, says “investigations of this nature take some time,” and is unable to say when it might be complete.