On 26 July 2019, the Canadian Forces National Investigation Service (CFNIS) charged a member of the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) with sexual assault under the Criminal Code of Canada (CCC). The charges are in response to an incident which was reported to the Military Police in Edmonton, involving a civilian.
Private Shane Cody Hounsell, a Regular Force member with 1 Combat Engineer Regiment, 3 Canadian Division Support Base Edmonton, faces the following charges:
- Two (2) counts of Sexual Assault contrary to section 271 of the CCC.
The matter is now proceeding through the civilian justice system. The accused's first court appearance is at the Provincial Court house in Morinville, Alta. on September 5th, 2019.
Quotes
"These charges are the result of a thorough criminal investigation, and are indicative of our commitment and resolve to insure that those responsible for committing sexually based offences within the Canadian Armed Forces are brought to justice."
Lieutenant-Commander Bryan MacLeod, Acting Commanding Officer, Canadian Forces National Investigation Service
Quick facts
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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.
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The CFMP Gp and the CFNIS conduct police investigations independently, without interference and in accordance with the highest professional standards.
