OPS Member charged with Sexual Assault

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Thursday, December 8th, 2022   3:45 p.m.

(Ottawa)— An investigation by the Ontario Provincial Police has resulted in three criminal charges against an Ottawa Police Service member.

Today, the OPP arrested and charged Mark Patterson, 53, a Superintendent with the Ottawa Police, with Sex Assault, Sex Assault [abusing a position of trust, power or authority Sec 271 (273.1(2)c)] and Breach of Trust.

The charges stem from incidents that are alleged to have occurred between December 2018 and May 2022, involving one complainant.

The Ottawa Police Service was made aware of the alleged incidents in June 2022. Supt. Patterson was immediately suspended and the OPP was asked to conduct an investigation.

Patterson remains suspended from duty. He was first suspended on June 15, 2022.

Patterson was released on an undertaking.

“Ottawa Police takes all allegations of sexual assault and harassment very seriously. We have no tolerance of either. It is damaging and debilitating to all those impacted,” said Chief Eric Stubbs. “The allegations and charges in this case are very serious and it is important that we respect the judicial process and for all the facts to be heard.”

The Ottawa Police remains committed to creating a workplace where all members feel safe, respected and supported through our Joint Strategy on Workplace Sexual Violence and Harassment Project.

The Ottawa Police has issued this release to ensure transparency related to this matter. Any questions related to this investigation should be directed to the OPP.

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