Not Guilty Verdict in 2018 Hockey Team Assault Case Sparks Controversy
Five former members of Canada's 2018 junior ice hockey team were acquitted of sexual assault charges from an alleged hotel incident, causing disappointment for the complainant and prompting careful review by the Crown. The case, marred by mistrials and juror dismissals, led to significant ramifications for Hockey Canada.
In a high-profile case that has captivated national attention, five former players from Canada's 2018 world junior ice hockey team have been found not guilty of sexually assaulting a woman in a hotel room. The verdict, delivered by Justice Maria Carroccia, has sparked controversy and disappointment, especially for the complainant known as E.M., whose testimony was deemed not credible or reliable by the court.
The case, involving National Hockey League players Michael McLeod, Alex Formenton, Dillon Dube, Carter Hart, and Cal Foote, faced a tumultuous journey to trial. Initial police investigations were dropped but later reopened, leading to charges in January 2024. Despite defense claims of E.M.'s lack of credibility, the not guilty verdict has left open the possibility of an appeal by the Crown, according to attorney Meaghan Cunningham.
The incident prompted a broader scandal, impacting Hockey Canada, including a funding freeze and the resignation of key officials. Although an independent panel investigated potential breaches of conduct by the 2018 team, its findings remain under appeal, keeping the public in suspense as the organization refrains from commenting further.
(With inputs from agencies.)
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