Editor’s note
The following story deals with sexual assault, and may be distressing for some readers.
If you or someone you know is in need of support, resources are available.
LONDON, Ont. — The trial for five former NHL players accused of sexual assault concluded its second day early on Wednesday.
Superior Court Justice Maria Carroccia dismissed the jury for the day, stating, “Something happened over the lunch hour that I need to think about and to discuss with the lawyers.”
Further specifics about the incident were not shared with the jury.
Wednesday`s proceedings began with the Crown emphasizing to the jury that consent is the central issue in the case.
In her opening statement, assistant Crown Heather Donkers declared, “This is a case about consent, and equally as important, this is a case about what is not consent.”
Donkers outlined details of the evidence the prosecution and defense anticipate presenting, including allegations regarding events in a Delta Armouries hotel room after a Hockey Canada event on June 18-19, 2018.
Opening statements serve as summaries of anticipated evidence from the Crown and defense, not as evidence themselves.
Justice Carroccia instructed the jury (composed of nine women and three men after two alternates were dismissed) that they alone were responsible for determining the facts. She warned them against discussing the case externally, reviewing news reports, or communicating with anyone about it, as these actions could lead to a mistrial.
Michael McLeod, 27, faces two sexual assault charges, one for aiding in the offense. Dillon Dube, 26, Cal Foote, 26, Alex Formenton, 25, and Carter Hart, 26, each face one sexual assault charge and have pleaded not guilty. All accused must attend the entire trial.
In May 2022, a report disclosed that Hockey Canada had reached a civil settlement with a woman in London who alleged sexual assault by eight men, including members of the 2018 Canadian men`s world junior team, following a team event in June 2018.
The London Police Service initiated an investigation in summer 2018, closing it in February 2019 due to insufficient evidence. Following significant public criticism of Hockey Canada`s response, police reopened the case in July 2022 and filed charges in January 2024.
The trial is scheduled to continue on Thursday.
