Opening statements set to begin in sexual assault trial of 5 former world junior hockey players

Additional Precautions for Jury Members

As the trial progresses, the judge is once again emphasizing the importance of maintaining confidentiality. Jurors are reminded not to discuss any details of the case with anyone or share information online. “If you happen to encounter someone involved in the case, whether it’s in an elevator or during lunch, refrain from engaging in conversation with them,” the judge cautions.

Furthermore, when jurors return home at the end of each day, they are advised to refrain from discussing the trial with family and friends. While providing a general overview of the charges is acceptable, delving into specifics is strongly discouraged.

It is crucial for jurors to avoid jumping to conclusions during the trial. The judge stresses that the true significance of any evidence can only be assessed when considering the evidence in its entirety. Therefore, it is imperative to resist the urge to form premature judgments.

In addition, jurors are urged not to make assumptions about the nature of sexual assault, the characteristics of individuals involved in such cases, or the dynamics of consensual sexual encounters. These biases can cloud judgment and compromise the fairness of the trial.