NHL players walk free after gang rape trial (Getty Images) A landmark sexual assault case involving five former members of Canada’s World Juniors hockey team has ended in acquittals, sparking renewed criticism of the nation’s hockey culture and the legal system’s handling of sexual violence. The case, centered on a 2018 incident in a London, Ontario hotel room, saw the complainant, “EM,” testify in excruciating detail about what she described as non-consensual acts involving multiple players. Despite this, the judge found her “not credible nor reliable,” a ruling that has left many Canadians disheartened.
A trial that put the accuser on the stand more than the accused
EM endured nine days of testimony, including seven under cross-examination by five separate defense teams. Her account described being intoxicated, overwhelmed, and pressured into adopting a “porn star” persona in a room of intimidating men. She admitted to trying to placate the players to avoid danger, not to willingly engage in group sex. But the judge, Justice Maria Carroccia, rejected her narrative, even citing discrepancies like her weight as evidence of dishonesty.“The complainant, rather than answering the question truthfully, chose to repeat what she had said previously,” Carroccia said, interpreting a minor weight estimate as a sign of deceit. This line of reasoning, critics argue, exemplifies a damaging legal double standard—one that held the complainant to impossible standards while largely ignoring the behavior of the accused.
Hockey Canada’s reckoning fades as players seek return to the NHL
Though the trial reignited scrutiny of Canadian hockey’s longstanding culture of silence and impunity, reform has been slow. Hockey Canada had previously settled with EM and admitted to having a secret fund for sexual assault claims. The revelations led to public outrage, dropped sponsors, and players being barred from the NHL.Still, many believe this reckoning is already being walked back. With the players acquitted, their union is advocating for their reinstatement. The NHL said the conduct was “unacceptable” but is still “determining next steps.” For many, this signals a return to business as usual.Also Read: “A non-starter for the Edmonton Oilers”: Carter Hart’s NHL comeback faces major hurdle despite acquittal, says insider
FAQs
1. What was the outcome of the Canada hockey assault trial?
All five accused players were acquitted of sexual assault charges.
2. Did the Hockey Canada sexual assault trial judge believe the complainant’s story?
No, the judge found her testimony not “credible nor reliable.”
3. Will the players accused in the sexual assault trial return to the NHL?
The NHL has not confirmed but is reviewing the case post-verdict.