Jordan Kealy, an Independent MLA in B.C., has been charged with sexual assault for offences that allegedly occurred months before he was elected in October, 2024.
B.C. independent MLA Jordan KealySupplied
The former Conservative MLA appeared to be on the cusp of returning to the BC Conservative caucus before Thursday’s announcement that a special prosecutor had approved a single charge of sexual assault. The offences allegedly took place between Jan. 1 and Sept. 20, 2024, in Fort St. John.
The independent prosecutor was appointed in February to make a determination about potential charges, based on an investigation conducted by the North District Prince George RCMP into allegations against Mr. Kealy. That appointment was not made public until Thursday.
When dealing with cases involving elected public officials, the BC Prosecution Service branch will bring in outside counsel in an effort to avoid any potential for real or perceived improper influence in the administration of justice.
In a statement, Mr. Kealy said he will stay in office and fight the charge. “I am innocent of the accusation against me and will prove that in court. In the meantime, it will be business as usual, advocating for my constituents and region.”
The MLA, a beef farmer from the province’s Peace River region, had left the Conservative caucus in March, 2025, after another MLA, Dallas Brodie, was dumped from the party over controversial remarks about residential schools.
But on Saturday, the MLA for Peace River North attended the Conservative leadership convention and welcomed the election of Kerry-Lynne Findlay as the party’s new leader.
Ms. Findlay has said on Saturday she is in talks with some Independent MLAs about returning to caucus, and Mr. Kealy later confirmed he expected to speak to Ms. Findlay about his possible return.