Judge Dismisses Jury in High-Profile Hockey Assault Trial

LONDON, Ontario – The jury in the sexual assault trial of five former members of Canada’s 2018 world junior hockey team was dismissed on Friday, following a complaint from a juror about inappropriate behavior by defense attorneys.

Ontario Superior Court Justice Maria Carroccia will now oversee the case without a jury, a decision made after the juror expressed concerns that some defense lawyers were laughing at members of the jury as they entered the courtroom. The juror’s note indicated that multiple members felt uncomfortable and judged by the attorneys representing one of the accused players.

Defense attorneys Daniel Brown and Hilary Dudding denied the accusations and argued for a mistrial, claiming that the jury’s ability to remain impartial had been compromised. However, Judge Carroccia concluded that the jurors’ negative feelings toward the defense could not be remedied.

The trial involves Michael McLeod, Dillon Dube, Carter Hart, Cal Foote, and Alex Formenton, who are facing charges related to an alleged assault of a then-20-year-old woman during a Hockey Canada gala in June 2018. The woman testifying via video feed has claimed she was intoxicated and felt pressured during the incident.

Following the dismissal, Brown expressed regret on behalf of Formenton, stating that the defense had no intention of alienating jurors, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a respectful courtroom atmosphere. All five players have pleaded not guilty, with McLeod facing an additional charge regarding his involvement.

As the trial transitions to a judge-alone format, the proceedings can continue without restarting the legal process, which had already witnessed significant witness testimonies, including from the complainant.

After dismissing the jury, Judge Carroccia thanked them for their time, noting the crucial role they have played over the past four weeks.

The case has faced previous disruptions, with a mistrial declared just days into the original proceedings due to juror interactions with defense counsel outside the courtroom. The trial is set to resume next week with further witness testimonies, as officials work toward a thorough resolution.