Hockey Canada sexual assault case: Accused Carter Hart claims woman had sex willingly, did not protest

The sexual assault trial involving five former members of Canada’s world junior hockey team continued Thursday at Ontario Superior Court in London. Carter Hart, one of the accused, took the witness stand for the first time. He revealed some of the fuzzy events surrounding the alleged group sexual assault of a young woman, identified as E.M., at a hotel in June 2018.

Hart testified that the woman involved, referred to as E.M., willingly participated in the sexual activities that occurred in a hotel room in June 2018. He stated that E.M. did not express any objections during the encounter. Hart is the first of the accused players to testify in the trial.

In earlier updates, it was confirmed that one of the accused, Michael McLeod, who had consensual sex with one of the women, will not be testifying. There is still uncertainty regarding whether other accused, Cal Foote, Dillon Dubé, or Alex Formenton, will choose to testify in their own defense.

Defense challenges witness credibility

During cross-examination, Hart's lawyer questioned NHL player Brett Howden, who was present during the incident. The defense pointed out inconsistencies in Howden's recollection, suggesting his memory might be unreliable due to a past head injury. Howden's testimony is central to the prosecution's case.

Brett Howden testified remotely from Las Vegas, where he plays for the Golden Knights, and was questioned by Megan Savard, the lawyer for Cart.

Trial disruptions

The trial has faced multiple disruptions. Earlier this month, the jury was dismissed after jurors reported feeling mocked by defense attorneys. This followed a previous mistrial caused by alleged inappropriate contact between a juror and a defense lawyer. As a result, the trial is now proceeding without a jury.

Background of the case

The charges stem from an incident during a Hockey Canada gala in June 2018. The complainant alleges she was sexually assaulted by multiple players in a hotel room.

All five accused, Carter Hart, Michael McLeod, Cal Foote, Dillon Dubé, and Alex Formenton, have pleaded not guilty. McLeod faces an additional charge of being a party to the offense.

The trial continues under the supervision of Ontario Superior Court Justice Maria Carroccia. A publication ban remains in effect, limiting the release of certain details.

All five players are currently on leave from professional hockey and are not under contract with any NHL team.