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B.C. MLA Jordan Kealy Charged With Sexual Assault

The charge has halted his expected return to the B.C. Conservative caucus under a special prosecutor who has limited public comment.

B.C. independent MLA Jordan Kealy
Jordan Kealy
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B.C. independent MLA Jordan Kealy is shown in this undated handout photo. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Handout — Legislative Assembly of B.C. (Mandatory Credit)

Overview

  • Kealy was arrested and released Wednesday and has been charged with one count of sexual assault over alleged incidents that took place between Jan. 1 and Sept. 20, 2024 in the Fort St. John/Cecil Lake area.
  • His first provincial court appearance is scheduled for July 6 in Fort St. John and Kealy says he is innocent and will remain in office while he fights the charge.
  • A special prosecutor, Vancouver lawyer Gail Barnes, was appointed on Feb. 9 after a Prince George RCMP investigation to avoid any real or perceived improper influence, and the B.C. Prosecution Service says it will not release further details while the matter is before the court.
  • The B.C. Conservative Party has said Kealy will not rejoin its caucus and party officials called the charges incredibly serious, while opposition figures have urged steps for accountability and clarity about when party leaders were notified.
  • The case follows other recent charges involving provincial legislators and highlights how special prosecutors and limited disclosure are used in allegations against elected officials, with potential effects on local representation and party dynamics.