RECAP | Defence lawyers target E.M.’s memory ‘gap,’ credibility as witness at world juniors sex assault trial
Courtroom sketch artists play a crucial role in bringing the public inside the courtroom when cameras are not allowed. Alexandra Newbould is one such artist who has been capturing key moments in the high-profile Hockey Canada sex assault trial in London, Ont. Using traditional methods like pencils, watercolors, and oil painting, Newbould now creates her sketches on an iPad.
Throughout the six-week trial, Newbould has produced over 100 sketches, making it the most extensive body of work she has created for a single case. The trial’s high profile nature, with numerous accused individuals, lawyers, and the Crown involved, has contributed to the volume of work. Initially, there were two juries before the trial transitioned into a judge-alone format.
Newbould focuses on capturing dramatic moments in the courtroom, such as heated exchanges, controversial decisions, and the introduction of physical evidence like stilettos and shot glasses. She pays attention to details like clothing, hairstyles, and gestures to enhance the drawings’ information and interest.
One of the challenges Newbould faces is portraying the complainant, E.M., while respecting the publication ban that protects her identity. To maintain anonymity, she avoids depicting specific features like skin color or hairstyle. Instead, she includes contextual items like a glass of water and a box of Kleenex to convey the person’s presence without revealing identifiable characteristics.
Despite the technical challenges and ethical considerations, Newbould takes pride in her work and sees it as an honor to bring the public inside the courtroom through her art. By diligently documenting the trial’s proceedings, she fulfills a vital role in ensuring transparency and accessibility to justice for the wider community.
