Injured at home
Senator Brazeau is found with a serious injury in his home in Ottawa. He undergoes emergency surgery and is in critical but stable condition. The nature of his injuries and the cause of his injuries are not disclosed, but police say that there is no criminal investigation. Brazeau has been on paid leave of absence since 2013 due to charges of fraud and assault. He is scheduled to stand trial on the fraud charges in March.
Assault charges
Police in Gatineau, Quebec arrest Brazeau on suspicion of domestic violence after an altercation at a private residence in that city. He is accused of fighting with Vanessa Brixton while intoxicated, and of making threats against an unnamed man also present at the scene. Authorities also found a “small amount” of cocaine in Brazeau’s possession during the arrest. A spokesman for Prime Minister Stephen Harper:
Mr. Brazeau has been suspended without pay and is no longer a member of this caucus.
Fraud charges
The RCMP charge Senator Brazeau, and former senator Harb, with fraud, alleging improper claiming of living expenses. Both men deny the charges. Three other senators are named, but the RCMP had not yet decided whether or not to bring charges against them.