Ontario Progressive Conservative MPP Chris Scott has been expelled from caucus after being charged with assault and assault with a weapon. The Sault Ste. Marie representative was arrested Sunday and released on bail, with a court appearance scheduled for October 22 at 9:30 a.m.
In a statement, the Sault Ste. Marie Police Service confirmed that 35-year-old Chris Van Scott, also known as Chris Scott, was arrested by Toronto Police following an investigation led by Sault police detectives. Authorities declined to share further information, citing the privacy of the alleged victim or victims.
The Ontario New Democratic Party called for Scott’s immediate resignation from his seat. The NDP argued that remaining in office would undermine public trust while the charges are before the court.
Premier Doug Ford addressed the matter at a news conference on Monday, saying he would not comment on an active police investigation. “I don’t want to interfere in a police investigation,” Ford said, noting he only learned of the situation shortly before the event.
Peter Turkington, communications director for the Ontario PCs, confirmed Scott is no longer a member of the government caucus. “Further questions can be directed to Sault Ste. Marie police,” Turkington said in an emailed statement.
The allegations against Scott have not been proven in court, and he is presumed innocent until proven guilty. His removal from caucus means he will continue to sit as an independent MPP unless he resigns his seat.
Scott, elected in 2022, was serving his first term representing Sault Ste. Marie.
