B.C. RCMP officer facing sexual assault charge suspended with pay

An RCMP constable has been suspended with pay, as he faces a sexual assault charge in Kelowna.

Const. Chad Vance, 49, wasposted to the Southeast District General Investigation Section, prior to his suspension, according to an RCMP spokesperson.

Court records show the offence Vance is accused of allegedly took place in July, 2015. Further details of the alleged sexual assault aren't available.

Staff.Sgt. Janelle Shoihetwith RCMP E Division said an internal police code of conduct assessmentis underway, though it's unclear whether the allegationisrelated toVance's investigative duties.

Vance's paid suspension from the force is subject to continual review, according to Shoihet.

Earlier this year, Vance was charged with assault in regards to an incident last summer. That charge was stayed at the direction of the prosecutionin November.

The officer's next court appearance is scheduled for Jan.23.