B.C. MLA Hon Chan Charged With Assault, Removed From Conservative Caucus

Hon Chan, the B.C. MLA for Richmond Centre, has been charged with assault, assault by choking and uttering threats, according to the BC Prosecution Service.

Chan was formally charged on Wednesday and released from custody. He is scheduled to appear in court on April 22 at Richmond provincial court.

Details of the case

The charges stem from an incident alleged to have taken place on Jan. 12, 2024, in Richmond, following an investigation by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP).

The case has been designated a “K file,” indicating it involves alleged intimate partner or domestic violence.

Authorities have not released the identity of the alleged victim.

To avoid any conflict of interest, a special prosecutor — Andi MacKay — was appointed to oversee the case.

Removed from caucus

Following the charges, Chan was removed from the B.C. Conservative Party caucus.

Party leader Trevor Halford said Chan informed him of the charges the day before they became public.

“These are incredibly serious… very troubling, very disturbing,” Halford said at a news conference.

He added that the party acted immediately and that no one within the caucus was aware of the investigation prior to the charges being laid.

Chan denies allegations

In a statement issued by his constituency office, Chan said he disputes the allegations and intends to defend himself through the legal process.

“He disagrees with the allegation and looks forward to defending himself through the legal process,” the statement read.

The office added that Chan will cooperate fully with police and the courts, but declined further comment while the case is before the courts.

Political reaction

The charges have sparked criticism from opposition members.

Grace Lore, an NDP MLA, said removing Chan from caucus does not go far enough and called for his resignation.

“It is inappropriate for someone facing criminal charges for violent crimes to continue serving as an MLA,” she said.

When asked whether Chan should step down, Halford said that decision ultimately rests with him.

Background

Chan was elected in October 2024 after becoming a B.C. Conservative candidate earlier that year. He previously worked as a journalist and served as the party’s critic for climate-related issues.

What happens next

The case will proceed through the courts, beginning with Chan’s first appearance in April.

As the legal process unfolds, the situation raises broader questions about accountability and standards for elected officials facing serious criminal charges.