The head of the union representing Ottawa police officers and civilian staff is facing sexual assault allegations dating back to 2008, according to information obtained by CBC News. An email from the Ottawa Police Association’s board of directors revealed that Matthew Cox is under investigation by Ontario’s Special Investigations Unit (SIU).
The union clarified that the accusation against Cox is unrelated to his union duties, emphasizing that he continues to hold the position of president. The email stressed the importance of allowing the investigation to proceed independently without any interference. It also highlighted that the alleged incident took place before Cox was elected as president and that the presumption of innocence should be upheld until the investigative process is completed.
The SIU is currently looking into a sexual assault complaint involving the Ottawa Police Service, which was reported to the unit on March 25. While the SIU did not confirm whether Cox is the subject of the investigation, it stated that officers are only identified if charges are laid. As of now, Cox has not been charged, and the SIU’s investigation will determine the next steps regarding potential criminal charges.
In response to inquiries regarding Cox, the Ottawa Police Service disclosed that it was made aware of a historical sexual misconduct allegation involving a member on March 24 and promptly informed the SIU. The SIU’s mandate includes investigating serious incidents such as fatalities, injuries, gunfire, and allegations of sexual assault within the police force in Ontario.
Cox assumed the role of president of the Ottawa Police Association in December 2022, having joined the force in 2006. He did not provide a comment when contacted on Monday.
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