Retired member of Canadian military charged with sexually assaulting a subordinate

A retired member of the Canadian Armed Forces who now lives in Halifax has been charged with sexually assaulting a subordinate while stationed on HMCS Toronto six years ago.

Master Warrant Officer (retired) Andrew Dumford faces a total of five counts under the National Defence Act, including two counts of sexual assault.

The Forces’ National Investigation Service laid the charges Thursday.

The charges relate to incidents involving another member of the Armed Forces reported to have taken place while the accused was posted to HMCS Toronto between January 2010 and September 2011.

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Dumford faces two counts of sexual assault, one count of assault, one count of conduct to the prejudice of good order and discipline, and one count of ill-treated a person who by reason of rank was subordinate to him. All five counts are punishable under various sections of the National Defence Act.

“These charges reflect the ongoing commitment of the Canadian Forces National Investigation Service to support and protect victims by thoroughly investigating all allegations of sexual assault and bringing those responsible to justice, even after those individuals leave the Canadian Armed Forces,” said Lt.-Col. Francis Bolduc, commanding officer of the investigation service.

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The matter is proceeding in the military justice system for a possible court martial date. The date and location have yet to be determined.