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Ottawa police officer facing sexual assault charges

An Ottawa police officer is facing 21 criminal charges including sexual assault, forcible confinement and uttering threats related to four separate victims, the police service announced Wednesday.

Eric Post, 47, was suspended from duty on June 13, Ottawa police wrote in a news release. He remains suspended.

The Sexual Assault Child Abuse Section (SACA) charged Post with offences including sexual assault, pointing a firearm, possessing a dangerous weapon, harassment by repeated communication and forcible confinement.

Police, union won't comment

Ottawa police wouldn't say when the incidents occurred or how long Post has been an officer with the force; nor would they answer questions regarding the charges, including whether they occurred while the officer was on or off duty.

Ottawa police said the chief was out of town and unavailable for the interview, and did not offer anyone else to answer questions about the charges.

The Ottawa Police Association also said it's not commenting on the charges.

CBC
CBC

Post appeared in court Wednesday afternoon wearing a bright orange T-shirt and a blue and white-striped hoodie.

He only spoke once, answering "yes" when the judge asked him to verify his name.

While the allegations against Post relate to four victims, assistant Crown attorney Mark Holmes told the court the sexual assault charges relate to just one person.

Post was ordered not to communicate with any of the alleged victims. There is a publication ban on their names.

Post is expected back in court on Friday.

'Serious allegations'

"These allegations and charges are very serious," said Ottawa police Chief Charles Bordeleau in a statement. "They run counter to our values and I recognize this information will be disturbing to hear for our community and the members of our service. We must now allow the court process to proceed. I want to thank the investigators who have worked on this file for their professionalism."

Police are concerned there could be other victims. While Ontario's Special Investigations Unit was notified on Aug. 20, the police watchdog said the director decided to leave the investigation with Ottawa police.