On November 3rd, 2019, the Canadian Forces National Investigation Service (CFNIS) charged a member of the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) with sexual assault related offences, as well as for unauthorized possession of ammunition contrary to the Criminal Code of Canada (CCC). The charges are in response to an incident which took place on October 31st in Petawawa, ON.
Corporal Kyle Smith, a Regular Force member with the Canadian Special Operations Regiment (CSOR) currently based in Petawawa, ON faces the following charges:
- One (1) count of Sexual Assault contrary to section 271 of the CCC;
- One (1) count of Assault contrary to section 266 of the CCC;
- One (1) count of Contravention of storage regulations contrary to section 86(2) of the CCC; and
- One (1) count of Possession of ammunition knowing its possession is unauthorized contrary to section 92(2) of the CCC.
On November 1st, the CFNIS initiated an investigation from a complaint by a civilian victim into an allegation of a criminal nature which is alleged to have occurred after midnight on October 31st, 2019 in Petawawa, ON.
Upon execution of a search warrant at the residence of the member then suspected, unauthorized ammunition and deficiency in storage of weaponry was observed by the investigators, and the suspect was charged.
The matter is now proceeding in the civilian justice system. The accused first appearance at Pembroke County Court House, in Pembroke, ON is scheduled to be on December 10, 2019.
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Quotes
"This investigation resulting in charges demonstrates our commitment to ensure all individuals involved in such criminal activity are brought to justice. All members of the Canadian Armed Forces whether they are part of the Reserve Force or Regular Force are expected to serve/ behave in a respectful and professional manner at all times."
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. The matter is now proceeding through civilian justice system.
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The CFNIS is a specialized unit established within Canadian Forces Military Police Group (CF MP 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 CF MP Gp and the CFNIS conduct police investigations independently, without interference and in accordance with the highest professional standards.
