B.C. MLA facing criminal sex assault charge

Peace River North independent MLA Jordan Kealy says he was arrested and released on Wednesday and charged with sexual assault.

He tells Global News the allegation involves a former family friend — an adult — and occurred in 2024 in the Peace region.

He declined to give further details but says he is innocent and will fight the charge.

“I want my constituents to know that I’ve done nothing wrong,” Kealy told Global News over the phone.

“I’m completely innocent … I’ll prove that in court. And I’ll continue to do my job as an MLA to help my constituents. And, and once … this is proven in court that I’m innocent, I’ll continue to do this. I’ll continue to … do my job and I’ll, I’ll stay doing my job.”

Kealy said he has no plans to take a leave of absence.

Kealy added he has told new BC Conservative Leader Kerry-Lynne Findlay that he’ll remain an independent while the case unfolds in court.

However, in a statement, B.C.’s Minister of Labour, Jennifer Whiteside, said it is “inappropriate” for someone facing serious criminal charges to continue serving as an MLA.

“His constituents deserve an MLA that they can have confidence in and who is focused solely on the job of representing them,” she said.

“British Columbians would expect Kerry-Lynne Findlay to tell Jordan Kealy to step down immediately. She enthusiastically accepted his support throughout the leadership race, including standing on stage with him just days ago. She has been clear about her plans to bring him back into the caucus.

“She should use that relationship and advise him to resign.”

Whiteside also stated that Findlay should disclose when she learned about the complaint.

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

There was speculation he’d return to the party after appearing on stage at this past weekend’s convention after Findlay was selected leader.

Kealy is the second former BC Conservative facing a criminal charge:

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

As for Kealy, his first court appearance is scheduled for July 6 in Fort St. John.

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