B.C. Conservative MLA Expelled Following Serious Criminal Charges
Richmond Centre MLA Hon Chan has been removed from the British Columbia Conservative caucus after criminal charges were filed against him for alleged domestic violence offenses. The B.C. Prosecution Service confirmed that Chan faces charges of assault, choking, and uttering threats stemming from an incident that occurred in January 2024.
Immediate Action Taken by Party Leadership
Interim Conservative leader Trevor Halford announced the expulsion on Thursday, stating that Chan informed him of the charges on Wednesday. "Action was taken immediately upon becoming aware of these charges," Halford emphasized. "Our caucus wishes to be clear, any allegations of domestic violence are taken seriously. Anyone who experiences it deserves to know that people in positions of public trust will be held to the highest standard of accountability."
Halford added that neither the party nor the caucus had been previously aware of the accusations against Chan, who was elected as a first-term MLA in October 2024 with 52 percent of the vote in Richmond Centre.
Legal Proceedings and Special Prosecutor Appointment
According to court documents, Chan was formally charged on March 25 in Richmond provincial court. The charges specifically relate to an alleged domestic violence incident that took place on January 12, 2024. His first court appearance is scheduled for April 22.
In a significant development, King's Counsel Andi MacKay was appointed as special prosecutor for the case on June 27, 2025. The B.C. Prosecution Service stated this measure was taken to "avoid any potential for real or perceived improper influence in the administration of justice considering the nature of the allegations and the identity of the accused as an elected public official."
Background and Political Role
Before entering politics, Chan had a 15-year career with Fairchild TV as a news anchor, assignment editor, and talk show host. Following his election victory over NDP incumbent Henry Yao, he served as the Conservative critic for several key portfolios including:
- ICBC
- TransLink and Transit
- Climate Solutions
Halford stressed that while Chan has been removed from caucus, "Mr. Chan is entitled to the presumption of innocence and due process before the courts. Those proceedings will run their course." None of the charges have been proven in court at this time.
Postmedia has reached out to Chan for comment on the allegations and his removal from the Conservative caucus. The case continues to develop as legal proceedings move forward.
