Five former members of Canada’s world junior hockey team — Michael McLeod, Dillon Dube, Cal Foote, Alex Formenton, and Carter Hart — have been acquitted of sexual assault charges related to a 2018 incident in London, Ontario.
Ontario Superior Court Justice Maria Carroccia found the alleged victim’s testimony lacking credibility and consistency, noting contradictions between her police and Hockey Canada statements, and video evidence showing her giving consent. The judge ruled that the Crown had not met the burden of proof, prompting disappointment from the woman’s legal team and supporters. All five players remain ineligible to play in the NHL pending further review.
The case, which drew national attention and public scrutiny, centred on whether the complainant, known as “EM”, had consented to multiple sexual acts after initially agreeing to sex with one player.
EM testified she was intoxicated and fearful, while the defence argued she was a willing participant. The trial included testimony from players not charged, video footage, and a review of players’ text messages.
Dogs always attack in pack.
A girl/ woman should always be warry of “sportsmen” after a match and stay sober
They all look like pretty much the same guy. Sexual assault can be painful, humiliating and confusing. It may take years to discover who the real perpetrators were are as commonly used drugs block out large chunks of memory. Video evidence can be easily faked just as a “yes” or a signature can be obtained by deception.