WARNING: This story includes graphic details of alleged sexual assault and might affect those who have experienced sexual violence or know someone who’s been impacted by it.
The woman at the centre of the sexual assault trial for five former players with Canada’s world junior hockey team finished a marathon nine days of testimony this week in London, Ont. — before a sudden turn in the proceedings.
The accused men are Dillon Dubé, Cal Foote, Alex Formenton, Carter Hart and Michael McLeod, who’ve all pleaded not guilty. E.M., whose identity is protected under a standard publication ban, gave her account of the alleged assaults and answered hundreds of questions from the men’s lawyers.
On Thursday, however, after E.M. had concluded her testimony a day earlier, proceedings stalled due to discussions between Justice Maria Carroccia and the lawyers.
Carroccia discharged the jury on Friday and ruled the proceedings would continue by judge alone.
As a result, the proceedings are continuing where they …