What is and isn’t consent key in trial for 5 ex-world junior hockey players, Crown tells Ontario jury
The trial of five former world junior hockey players accused of sexual assault has begun in London, Ontario, with the Crown laying out its case against the men. The woman at the centre of the case, known as E.M., did not explicitly say “no” and was not physically restrained, but the Crown argues that she did not consent to the sexual activity that took place in a hotel room in June 2018.
The accused players are Michael McLeod, Dillon Dubé, Cal Foote, Alex Formenton, and Carter Hart, all of whom went on to sign with NHL teams after successful junior hockey careers. The Crown alleges that the men engaged in sexual activity with E.M. without her voluntary agreement, with McLeod facing an additional charge for allegedly encouraging his teammates to participate in the assault.
During the opening statements, assistant Crown prosecutor Heather Donkers emphasized that the case revolves around the issue of consent and what constitutes non-consent. The jury was reminded to set aside any preconceived notions about sexual assault and carefully consider the evidence presented in court.
The events leading up to the alleged assault were detailed, with E.M. meeting the players at a nightclub after a celebration of their world junior hockey victory. The Crown argued that the men engaged in sexual activity with E.M. without her agreement, leading to her feeling drunk, uncomfortable, and uncertain about how to react.
The trial is expected to last approximately eight weeks, with the prosecution presenting evidence such as surveillance video and text messages from the night in question. The defence maintains that the accused are presumed innocent and that it is the Crown’s responsibility to prove their guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
If you or someone you know has been impacted by sexual violence, it is important to seek support from local services and crisis lines. Remember, consent is essential in all sexual encounters, and it is crucial to respect boundaries and ensure that all parties involved are willing participants.
