SIU recommends against charging Ottawa police union president

SIU recommends against charging Ottawa police union president

Matthew Cox had been accused of sexual assault in 2008

WARNING: This article may affect those who have experienced​ ​​​sexual violence or know someone affected by it.

Ontario's Special Investigations Unit (SIU) is not recommending criminal charges against Ottawa Police Association president Matthew Cox, who had been accused of a sexual assault in 2008.

The SIU said it is not releasing its usual report on what happened because of privacy and "a risk of further deterring what is an under-reported crime."

The independent watchdog said it consulted with the complainant before reaching its decision, and said that person was given a copy of the report along with Cox, the province's attorney general and others.

Cox, who joined the Ottawa Police Service in 2006 and became president of the union representing both sworn and civilian members in December 2022, remained president during the investigation.

In a statement to CBC, Cox wrote: "These investigations are difficult for all parties. I cooperated fully with SIU, and I am thankful that we have civilian oversight bodies that thoroughly investigate these matters."

He said he's grateful the investigation has been concluded, and has no further comment on the matter.

The SIU said it was notified about the allegations in late March of this year. The file was closed Friday.

It investigates fatalities, serious injuries, shots fired and allegations of sexual assault involving police in Ontario.

If you’re in immediate danger or fear for your safety or that of others around you, please call 911. For support in your area, you can look for crisis lines and local services via the Ending Sexual Violence Association of Canada database. ​​