Suspended Sarnia police officer charged with assault, criminal harassment
The Sarnia Police Service says a suspended officer is facing a number of charges, including assault, following a dispute with another individual.
The two people know each other, according to a news release issued Sunday, but police said they would not be releasing details in order to protect the victim's identity.
The suspended officer is charged with assault, criminal harassment, mischief and animal cruelty in relation to Friday's incident.
He was released on bail pending his next court date but has to follow conditions.
The constable has been suspended from duty since Aug. 29, 2023, Sarnia Police Chief Derek Davis said in a written statement.
An investigation by Ontario's police watchdog found "reasonable grounds to believe" that the officer committed a criminal offence in connection with a serious injury sustained by a suspect during an arrest in 2022.
"As per the (then) Police Services Act (PSA) this suspension remains in effect, and all disciplinary proceedings are paused, pending the outcome of the criminal court process," Davis said.
Davis said the police service does not have any control over the timeline for the court process.
The police chief said he's ordered an immediate disciplinary investigation into the latest charges and any decisions about charges under the Community Safety and Policing Act or modifications to the officer's suspension will take place once that investigation is complete.