One month following his removal from the Progressive Conservative caucus led by Doug Ford, Sault Ste. Marie MPP Chris Scott had a court hearing scheduled in his northeastern Ontario constituency on Wednesday morning. However, Scott chose to remain at Queen’s Park instead of attending the hearing.
The newly elected MPP was arrested and charged with assault and assault with a weapon on September 19. During the court session on Wednesday morning, an articling student, representing lawyer Michael Lacy via Zoom, requested an adjournment of Scott’s case until after the counsel pre-trial scheduled for November 4. The case is anticipated to reconvene in a Sault Ste. Marie courtroom on November 12.
Currently serving as an Independent member, Scott was absent during the Legislature’s first session since June on Monday but was present in Toronto on Tuesday, distancing himself from Ford and the PC party.
Despite calls from various public figures, such as Ontario NDP Leader Marit Stiles and Sault Mayor Matthew Shoemaker, urging him to resign, Scott expressed eagerness to resume his duties. He remains confident in his capabilities and denied the allegations of spousal assault, emphasizing his trust in the legal system and looking forward to his court appearance.
While refraining from engaging in partisan activities like canvassing or fundraising, Scott assured constituents that his office remains open and promised to provide further statements once the issue is resolved. He mentioned receiving support from some of his former PC caucus colleagues but clarified that he has not been in contact with Ford, acknowledging the latter’s busy schedule.