March 29, 2019 – Ottawa – National Defence/Canadian Armed Forces
Yesterday, the Canadian Forces National Investigation Service (CFNIS) charged a member of the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) under the Criminal Code and other charges under the National Defence Act (NDA). The charges relate to a reported incident involving another member of the CAF which took place during a social event on base in Bagotville, QC at beginning of December 2018.
Major Éric Duquette, a Regular Force member with 2 Wing Bagotville faces the following charges:
- One (1) count of Sexual Assault under section 271(b) of the Criminal Code.
- One (1) count of Abuse of subordinates, contrary to section 95 of the NDA.
- One (1) count of Conduct to the Prejudice of Good Order and Discipline, contrary to section 129 NDA.
At the beginning of December 2018, a third party contacted the local Military Police to complain about inappropriate sexual behavior by another service member. The investigative file was transferred to the CFNIS a few days later when initial investigation by Military Police reported information alluding to potential acts of criminal nature.
The matter is now proceeding in accordance with the military justice system for possible summary trial or court martial at a date and location to be determined.
Additional multimedia
"The Canadian Forces Military Police seek to investigate and where appropriate lay charges based on factual evidence regardless of location in Canada or abroad. All members of the Canadian Armed Forces – whether they are part of the Reserve Force or Regular Force – should expect to serve in a respectful and professional environment safe from harmful and inappropriate sexual behaviour."
Lieutenant-Colonel Kevin Cadman, Commanding Officer, Canadian Forces National Investigation Service
Quick facts
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In all cases, the subject of charges is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
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The matter is now proceeding through the military justice system for possible summary trial or court martial at a date and location to be determined.
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The CFNIS is a specialized unit established within Canadian Forces Military Police Group (CFMP Gp). Its primary mandate is to investigate serious and sensitive matters in relation to Department of National Defence (DND) property, DND employees and CAF personnel serving in Canada and around the world. The CFMP Gp and the CFNIS conduct police investigations independently, without interference and in accordance with the highest professional standards.
