Uqqummiut MLA Samuel Nuqingaq charged with assault

CBC has confirmed the RCMP has charged the MLA for Uqqummiut with two criminal code offences.

Samuel Nuqingaq represents the communities of Clyde River and Qikiqtarjuaq.

The 42-year-old faces one count of being unlawfully in a dwelling house and one count of assault.

The offences are alleged to have occurred in Qikiqtarjuaq on February 24.

But according to court documents, he was formally charged two weeks ago.

Nuqingaq narrowly took the Uqqummiut seat in the last fall's territorial election.

He won by two votes after a judicial recount.

But Nuqingaq has had problems since being elected.

He failed to show up for some of his legislative duties in the fall and disciplinary action was taken.

In March, Nuqingaq was suspended from the legislature.

No reason was given for the motion at that time.

Nuqingaq is scheduled to appear before a judge in Qikiqtarjuaq on June 26.