Independent NSW MP Gareth Ward has been charged over the alleged historical sexual assault of a teenage boy in 2013 and a man in 2015.
Police confirmed Ward has been charged with three counts of assault with an act of indecency, and one count each of sexual intercourse without consent and common assault.
Ward, who is the member for Kiama, said in a statement to constituents today: “I am innocent, and I intend to prove it.”
Ward was formerly a Liberal Party frontbencher and the Minister for Families.
He stepped down from the role last year and left the Liberal Party after confirming he was the subject of a criminal inquiry.
NSW Premier Dominic Perrottet said on Tuesday afternoon that if Ward does not resign, the state government will move a motion to remove him from Parliament.
Ward has been granted conditional bail and is set to appear at the Port Kembla Local Court on 18 May.
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