BANCROFT, Ont. - A veteran provincial police officer is facing a sexual assault charge.

OPP spokeswoman Sgt. Kristine Rae says an investigation into a report of a sexual assault was launched by the force on Monday.

Rae says the 50-year-old officer was charged with sexual assault on Wednesday.

He was released and is to appear in court in Bancroft, Ont., on Jan. 13.

Rae says the officer -- who has been a member of the OPP for 29 years -- has been suspended from duty with pay.

The accused is not being named to protect the identity of the alleged victim.