Patrick Brazeau, a Native politician from Quebec, appeared in court today on assault and sexual assault charges.

Brazeau spent Thursday night in jail after he was arrested at his home. His Conservative caucus promptly kicked him out of their party after learning of the domestic violence incident.

Brazeau, who is Algonquin, has been under scrutiny in recent weeks. A recording captured him making disparaging remarks about Attawapiskat First Nation Chief Theresa Spence, who was on a hunger strike for six weeks.

He's also being investigated in connection with living expenses he claimed since joining the Senate of Canada in 2008. He resigned from his post as chief of the Congress of Aboriginal Peoples shortly after taking office.

"We know that he has a questionable history when it comes to some of his past activities amongst our people," Grand Chief Derek Nepinak of the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs told CBC News.

Get the Story:
Patrick Brazeau not credible, says Manitoba grand chief (CBC 2/8)
Senator Patrick Brazeau charged with assault, sexual assault (CBC 2/8)
Brazeau appears in court to face charges of assault, sexual assault (CP 2/8)
Patrick Brazeau could appear in court after alleged assault (CBC 2/7)