All players acquitted in Hockey Canada sex assault trial. Live updates here
Ontario Superior Court Justice Maria Carroccia has acquitted all five players involved in the Hockey Canada sexual assault trial.
Michael McLeod, Carter Hart, Alex Formenton, Dillon Dube and Callan Foote had all pleaded not guilty to sexual assault in an encounter that took place in a London, Ont., hotel room in the early hours of June 19, 2018.
I'll admit I wanted to be outraged at the not guilty verdicts, but then there is this which reduces the victims credibility, which doesn't mean assault didn't happen but it causes doubt:
Some of the complainant’s testimony was proven to be wrong by video evidence, the judge says.
For example, E.M. testified that she felt isolated at the bar, that she tried to sneak away but was followed, the judge said. But video shows she had an extended conversation with a bouncer while there, whom she said was a friend.
E.M. also said she was completely out of it when she arrived at the hotel, the judge recounted. However, she added, video showed E.M. exiting the cab, checking her phone, and walking up the stairs without difficulty.
This has unfortunately been the case in sexual assault cases since...forever, really.
There are almost never any witnesses, human memory is fallible, alcohol is sometimes a factor...the justice system is not well-equipped to handle it.
… not equipped to handle what, exactly?
Sexual assault is a pretty serious charge, and it appears in this case that the alleged victim seriously damaged her own credibility on several claims. I fully admit to not knowing a lot of this specific case but it sure seems like the justice system prevailed in upholding justice given the facts we have.
Anyone can check their phone while wasted and talk to a bouncer while tripping balls. Fuck this verdict.
Fuck these corrupt judges, fuck the judicial system. Name and shame those gang rapers so that this follows them for the rest of their lives. Fucking rapists.