Ontario MPP facing domestic assault charges takes leave despite calls for resignation

By Allison Jones

PC MPP Chris Scott attends Question Period at Queen's Park in Toronto on Tuesday, May 13, 2025. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Cole Burston

An Ontario member of provincial parliament facing domestic violence charges says he is taking a short leave.

Chris Scott was elected in February to represent Sault Ste. Marie for the Progressive Conservatives, but was kicked out of caucus shortly after his arrest last month.

He was charged with assault and assault with a weapon — which police allege in court records was a high chair — and his case is next due in court Oct. 22.

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Scott has issued a statement today saying he is taking a short leave from non-essential public appearances but remains fully committed to serving the people of Sault Ste. Marie.

The NDP, whose candidate finished a very close second to Scott in the election, has called for Scott to resign.

Scott says he has a lawyer and has confidence in the criminal justice system but will not be saying anything more about the charges.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Oct. 2, 2025.

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