London police officer charged with sexual assault

A London police officer has been charged with sexual assault in relation to an off-duty incident.

The officer, 41, and the female victim had been involved in a relationship, and to protect the identity of the woman, the officer's name will not be released, according toa statement issued by police Thursday.

It said the incident occurred Friday, Nov. 17 and was reported to police Wednesday.

"It's alwaysvery 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.

Williams said it is not appropriate for police to comment on the details of the investigation, which is now before the courts. But he added: "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."

Officer suspended with pay

The accused, who has two years of service as a police officer, has been suspended with pay. The statement noted that the Police Services Act currently does not allow for the suspension of an officer without pay "in a situation such as this."

The statement said the Ontario's Special Investigations Unit was contacted but has not invoked its mandate.

The officer was arrested and released with conditions. He is to appear in court Jan. 4, 2018.