Sault Ste. Marie MPP Chris Scott, facing assault charges, won’t attend Ontario court hearing Wednesday

One month after he was booted from Doug Ford’s Progressive Conservative caucus, Sault Ste. Marie MPP Chris Scott is scheduled for a court hearing in his northeastern Ontario riding on Wednesday.

However, Scott confirmed to reporters at the Legislature on Tuesday that he won’t be attending the hearing.

His lawyer, Michael Lacy, will be in court on Scott’s behalf.

“My case is in court tomorrow [Wednesday] — I’m going to be [at Queen’s Park],” he said earlier Tuesday.

The rookie MPP was arrested and charged with assault and assault with a weapon on Sept. 19.

Now sitting as an Independent, Scott missed the Legislature’s first session since June on Monday but was in his seat in Toronto on Tuesday — away from Ford and the PCs. 

Despite numerous calls to step down from myriad public officials, including Ontario NDP Leader Marit Stiles and Sault Mayor Matthew Shoemaker, Scott said he’s “excited to get back to work.”

“I definitely still believe in myself and my ability to do the job I was elected to do,” he said.

When asked if he denies the allegations, Scott responded quickly: “One hundred per cent.

“I have full faith in the criminal justice system. I’m looking forward to my day in court,” he said Tuesday.

Scott told reporters that several colleagues of his from the PC caucus have approached him with support and “have his back.”

He said he has not been in communication with Ford. 

“He’s a pretty busy guy.”

Although Scott has stepped away from partisan activities — like knocking on doors or fundraising — he said his office remains open to constituents. 

“We’ll have a lot more to say once this matter is cleared up.”