Saint John police officer charged with sexual assault, suspended from duties

A sign for the Saint John Police Force is pictured on April 10, 2025. (CTV Atlantic/Avery MacRae)

A Saint John Police Force officer has been charged with sexual assault and suspended from his duties following an investigation by the Serious Incident Response Team (SiRT).

The police force received a public complaint against an officer on Feb. 20. Four days later, they referred the matter to SiRT, according to a news release.

In a separate statement, Erin Nauss, director of SiRT, said police launched an investigation into an “historical allegation of sexual assault.” Nauss said they have “reasonable and probable grounds” to believe Sgt. Thomas Clayton committed criminal offences.

The officer, who has 37 years of service with the police force, was charged with sexual assault and breach of trust by a public officer on Tuesday. He was released on an undertaking and is scheduled to appear in court on Nov. 13.

The police force says the sergeant has been suspended from his duties. A New Brunswick Police Act investigation will follow the criminal proceedings.

“The Saint John Police hold our members to the highest standard of accountability,” said Chief R.M. Bruce.

“Complaints are taken very seriously and are thoroughly investigated. Due to the nature of the allegations the Serious Incident Response Team was consulted and assumed this investigation. We will remain steadfast in our commitment to work together with our citizens to ensure a safe, secure, and healthy community.”

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