The Crown has decided against appealing the not-guilty verdict in the Hockey Canada sexual assault trial, concluding a legal process that has spanned three years and placed intense scrutiny on the sport's culture. The five accused, all players from the 2018 world junior team, were acquitted last month. This decision brings an end to a case that has raised significant questions about accountability and the handling of allegations within the organization.
The verdict was delivered in a London, Ontario courtroom following a two-month trial. The Crown attorney, Meaghan Cunningham, initially stated she would review Justice Maria Carroccia's ruling before determining the next steps. Defence lawyer Daniel Brown, representing Alex Formenton, confirmed the Crown's decision.
The players, including Formenton, Michael McLeod, Carter Hart, Dillon Dubé, and Cal Foote, were found not guilty of sexual assault. McLeod also faced a second charge of being a party to sexual assault, and was acquitted on that count as well. The complainant, identified as E.M., alleged the assault occurred in a London hotel room in June 2018, following an encounter at a bar. She stated she consented to sex with McLeod but alleged he later invited other players to the room without her consent.
During the trial, E.M.'s recollections were challenged by defence lawyers, including questions about her level of intoxication and the nature of her consent. Justice Carroccia cited inconsistencies between E.M.'s previous statements and her testimony, ultimately concluding that she could not rely on E.M.'s evidence. Several witnesses, including players present that night, testified to memory lapses regarding the events.
The Crown sought to introduce evidence from statements the players made to Hockey Canada during its internal investigation, but these were deemed inadmissible due to concerns of coercion. Players were reportedly informed by a Hockey Canada lawyer that non-cooperation could lead to consequences.
The allegations came to light in 2022 after Hockey Canada settled a civil lawsuit with E.M. The players remain suspended by the NHL and Hockey Canada, pending further review. The case has sparked ongoing conversations about the culture within the sport and the need for greater accountability.
5 Comments
Bermudez
This verdict feels like a slap in the face to survivors everywhere. We need to do better.
Coccinella
The legal system is broken, and the Hockey Canada scandal is further proof.
Muchacho
I hope the NHL and Hockey Canada do the right thing. Suspensions aren't enough - the players should be held accountable.
anubis
This verdict doesn't mean the complainant is lying. It means the evidence was insufficient to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
paracelsus
The court considered all the evidence before its final decision.