Independent MLA Jordan Kealy charged with sexual assault

Peace River North MLA Jordan Kealy has been charged with one count of sexual assault, according to the BC Prosecution Service.

In a statement released Wednesday, the BC Prosecution Service said a special prosecutor had been appointed in February to oversee an RCMP investigation involving allegations against Kealy.

The BC Prosecution Service said Kealy was charged on June 3. The alleged offence is alleged to have occurred in Fort St. John between Jan. 1 and Sept. 20, 2024.

A special prosecutor was appointed due to Kealy's position as an elected public official.

"I want my constituents to know that I've done nothing wrong," Kealy told Global News.

He added that he has no plans to take a leave of absence and intends to continue serving as MLA for Peace River North.

Kealy said he has informed newly elected BC Conservative Leader Kerry-Lynne Findlay that he will remain an Independent MLA while the matter proceeds through the court process.

Kealy was elected as a BC Conservative MLA in October 2024, but left the party the following year after fellow MLA Dallas Brodie was removed from caucus.

There had been speculation Kealy could return to the party after appearing on stage at last weekend's BC Conservative Leadership election night, where Findlay was elected leader.

Kealy is the second former BC Conservative MLA to face criminal charges this year.

In March, Richmond Centre MLA Hon Chan was removed from caucus after being charged with assault, assault by choking and uttering threats.

Kealy's first court appearance is scheduled for July 6 in Fort St. John.