7 days ago
Detective's bombshell testimony casts doubt on original investigation and raises new questions in Hockey Canada sexual assault trial
New insights from a key police detective have cast light on the emotional weight of reopening the case (photo credit : Nicole Osborne/The Canadian Press)
As the high-profile Hockey Canada sexual assault trial nears its conclusion, new insights from a key police detective have cast light on the emotional weight of reopening the case for the complainant, known in court as E.M.
Det. Lyndsey Ryan, the last witness to take the stand, testified about leading the London Police Service's 2022 reinvestigation into the 2018 incident involving five former World Junior hockey players — Michael McLeod, Dillon Dubé, Alex Formenton, Cal Foote, and Carter Hart, all of whom have pleaded not guilty.
Emotional toll on the complainant was central to investigation strategy
Ryan revealed that when she informed E.M. in July 2022 that the previously closed investigation was being reopened, the response was deeply emotional.
'She was quite upset... I think it was a bit overwhelming. She wasn't expecting us [police],' Ryan said. She emphasized that protecting E.M. from further trauma was a guiding principle throughout the renewed investigation. 'We had everything we needed from her and every interview was very retraumatizing.
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Despite differences in E.M.'s 2018 and 2022 statements, Ryan defended the evolution in E.M.'s understanding of the incident.
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'In the 2022 statement, she seems to know how she felt and understands what happened in that room was not her fault. I believe this change can be attributed to her having four years to think about the events and understand that she was not to blame, and her acquiescence did not equal consent.'
Trial nearing end after delays, with closing arguments set for June 9
The trial has seen its share of disruptions — including a mistrial and technical difficulties during testimony. Still, both the Crown and defence have now rested their cases, setting the stage for closing arguments.
Criminal law professor Christopher Sherrin noted that, especially in judge-alone trials, final submissions are pivotal. 'It is truly the opportunity to present the picture that you think is the best picture of the evidence to the judge in a succinct, coherent, persuasive form.'
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Too sober to be raped? The explosive story behind the dropped 2018 Hockey Canada probe
Crown attorney Meaghan Cunningham will present closing remarks after defence lawyers deliver theirs. The court will ultimately weigh the complicated issue of consent, which remains at the heart of this case.
