The member of provincial parliament for Sault Ste. Marie, Ont., has broken his silence, more than a week after being removed from Doug Ford's Progressive Conservative government for facing criminal charges.

Chris Scott, 35, issued a statement Thursday, saying he wanted to address the allegations that he committed assault and assault with a weapon on Sept. 19.

"I have retained counsel to represent me," it says. "I have trust and confidence in the criminal justice system. While the case is before the court, it is inappropriate to comment further about the charges.

"Out of respect for everyone involved— especially my children— I ask that my family's privacy be respected through this process."

Video Ont. MPP in Doug Ford's caucus dropped after assault charge

Scott, who's now an Indepe

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