London

High-ranking London police inspector charged with assault while off duty in Ottawa

A senior London officer at the centre of an internal investigation by the city's police chief has been charged with two counts of assault by police in Ottawa.

Insp. Ryan Scrivens now the subject of an internal investigation for February incident

Insp. Ryan Scrivens of the London Police Service has been charged with two counts of assault that took place in Ottawa during the Family Day long weekend. The 25-year veteran with the police force is facing an internal investigation by Chief Thai Truong.
Insp. Ryan Scrivens of the London Police Service has been charged with two counts of assault that took place in Ottawa during the Family Day long weekend. The 25-year veteran with the police force is facing an internal investigation by Chief Thai Truong. (Matthew Trevithick/CBC)

A senior London officer at the centre of an internal investigation by the city's police chief has been arrested by Ottawa police for two counts of assault.

Police in Ottawa arrested and charged Insp. Ryan Scrivens, 48, with assault and assault causing bodily harm for an incident that took place over the Family Day long weekend in mid-February.

Scrivens, who is suspended with pay, has been with London police for 25 years. 

Chief Thai Truong says he has launched an internal investigation into the matter, which will start once court proceedings are over.

"The community rightfully expects the highest standards of professionalism and integrity from all London Police officers, particularly senior leaders," Truong said in a statement on Wednesday.

"Upon learning of this serious matter in February, immediate action was taken, resulting in Inspector Scrivens' suspension. We remain committed to accountability and transparency, understanding that community trust is paramount.

Truong said he was unable to comment further due to the integrity of the investigation and to protect the privacy of the victim.

Scrivens has been released from custody and is expected to appear in court on June 20.