Based on coverage from CBC, Global News, The Globe and Mail, and Victoria Buzz.
Independent B.C. MLA Jordan Kealy, who represents Peace River North, has been charged with one count of sexual assault tied to alleged incidents in Fort St. John, according to the B.C. Prosecution Service.
The alleged offence dates range from Jan. 1 to Sept. 20, 2024. That period was before Kealy was elected in October 2024.
Sexual assault charge laid in Fort St. John
The B.C. Prosecution Service says the sexual assault charge relates to alleged events in Fort St. John. The file was reviewed by a special prosecutor, a step the province sometimes takes when an elected official is involved to avoid any real or perceived influence on the prosecution process.
Reporting on the case says a special prosecutor was appointed in February after an investigation by the North District Prince George RCMP into allegations involving Kealy. One report identifies the special prosecutor as Gail Barnes and says the appointment date was Feb. 9.
The prosecution service says it will not release additional details now that the matter is before the courts.
What Jordan Kealy says about the allegation
Kealy has publicly denied the accusation. He told Global News the allegation involves “a former family friend,” describing the complainant as an adult, and said the incident is alleged to have occurred in 2024 in the Peace region. He said he was arrested and released Wednesday.
Kealy declined to share further details, but said he plans to fight the charge and remain in his role.
“I want my constituents to know that I’ve done nothing wrong,” he told Global News, adding that he is “completely innocent” and intends to prove it in court.
Another report cites a written statement from Kealy along similar lines: that he is innocent, will prove it in court, and that it will be “business as usual” as he advocates for his constituents and region.
CBC News reported it had reached out to Kealy for comment.
Court date set for July 6
Kealy’s first court appearance is scheduled for July 6 at the Fort St. John Law Courts, according to multiple reports.
Beyond that date, there’s little public detail available yet. With a single charge approved and the case heading to court, the next clear milestone will be what happens at that first appearance, including any conditions, scheduling, or further disclosure through court proceedings.
B.C. Conservative party context and caucus questions
Kealy is currently an independent MLA. He was elected as a BC Conservative in 2024, but later left the party. Coverage differs slightly on the timeline and framing, but it centres on internal party turmoil after fellow MLA Dallas Brodie was removed from caucus over controversial remarks about residential schools. One report also notes Kealy had described the party as “toxic” in a social media post.
The charge lands amid renewed attention on Kealy’s relationship with the party. He appeared at the party’s recent leadership convention, where Kerry-Lynne Findlay was selected as leader, fuelling speculation he might return to caucus. Kealy told Global News he has informed Findlay he will remain an independent while the case moves through court.
The situation also follows another criminal case involving a former BC Conservative caucus member. Reports say Richmond MLA Hon Chan was removed from caucus in March after being charged with assault, assault by choking, and uttering threats.
For Peace River North residents, the immediate practical point is that Kealy says he does not plan to take a leave and intends to keep doing the MLA job while the case proceeds.
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