London police officer charged with sexual assault

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

Police say an incident involving a 41-year-old officer and a female was reported to police on Wednesday. The alleged incident took place on Nov. 17, police say.

According to police, the officer and victim had been involved in a relationship and in order to protect the woman’s identity, the officer’s name is not being released.

“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 Steve Williams, deputy chief of administration in a release, Thursday.

“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,” said Williams.

The accused, who has been working as a police officer for two years, was suspended with pay Thursday, because of provisions of the Police Services Act. The Act does not allow for the suspension a member without pay in this type of situation.

“The involved officer, like every citizen, is innocent until proven guilty in a court of law and we must let the judicial process run its course,” said Williams.

The Special Investigations Unit has been contacted. It has not invoked its mandate.

The officer was arrested Wednesday evening and released with conditions. He’s expected to appear in court Jan. 4.

As this matter is before the courts, the London Police Service will not comment further.