Five Canadian hockey players acquitted in sexual assault trial

July 25, 2025 – 9:16 AM

Five former Canadian junior hockey players accused of sexually assaulting a woman in 2018 have been acquitted by an Ontario judge, bringing a highly publicized trial to a close. The judge ruled that the prosecution failed to prove its case beyond a reasonable doubt, citing inconsistencies in the complainant’s testimony.

Judge rules Crown did not meet burden of proof

On Thursday, Ontario Superior Court Justice Maria Carroccia delivered her decision following an eight-week trial in London, Ontario. The accused—Michael McLeod, Dillon Dubé, Cal Foote, Alex Formenton, and Carter Hart—were all members of Canada’s 2018 World Junior Hockey Championship team and, at the time the allegations surfaced, were playing professionally, including in the NHL and overseas.

The complainant, identified only as “EM,” alleged that the five men sexually assaulted her in a hotel room after a Hockey Canada gala in June 2018. Justice Carroccia, however, said that EM’s testimony was not “credible or reliable” and pointed to several inconsistencies, including discrepancies in her account of who purchased drinks that evening and conflicting statements provided to police and Hockey Canada.

“The Crown cannot meet its onus on any of the counts,” Carroccia concluded.

Complainant expressed disappointment in ruling

EM, who was 20 years old at the time of the incident, watched the verdict virtually. Her lawyer, Karen Bellehumeur, said EM was “very disappointed” with the outcome.

“When a person summons the courage to disclose their story, the worst possible outcome is to feel disbelieved,” Bellehumeur said in a public statement.

Throughout the trial, EM maintained that while she initially consented to sex with Mr. McLeod, she did not agree to sexual activity with the other men and felt intoxicated and fearful.

Defence focused on consent, reliability of testimony

The defense argued that EM had willingly participated in the sexual activity. Lawyers for the players claimed she initiated contact and provided consent to all the acts. They also presented text messages among the players as evidence that they believed the encounter was consensual.

Only one of the accused, Mr. Hart, testified in his own defense. Two other hockey players, not charged in the case but present in the room, also testified, claiming EM had been “vocal” and clear about her intentions.

Justice Carroccia cited irregularities in EM’s account, including her recollection of events and differences in her reports to different investigators. The judge also referenced two video recordings shown during the trial—one taken without EM’s knowledge—where she appeared to be smiling and speaking normally. While these videos did not establish legal consent under Canadian law, the judge said they undermined the prosecution’s argument that EM stayed in the room out of fear.

Past settlement, public scrutiny added pressure

In 2022, Hockey Canada settled a lawsuit with EM for an undisclosed sum, reportedly part of a C$3.5 million ($2.5 million USD) agreement. The civil settlement and media coverage placed the organization—and the accused players—under intense national scrutiny, leading to calls for greater accountability within Canada’s hockey institutions.

Lawyer David Humphrey, who represented Mr. McLeod, said the acquittal brought relief to his client. “For years, public perception was shaped by a one-sided narrative. The damage to Mr. McLeod’s career and reputation has been significant,” he said.

Crown responds, public reaction divided

Prosecutor Meaghan Cunningham said her team would carefully review the ruling and noted that the trial had generated considerable public interest.

“A successful prosecution is not measured solely by whether there are guilty verdicts at the end,” she said. “The Crown’s goal throughout this proceeding has been to ensure a fair trial—for the accused, and for EM.”

She added that her office had received numerous messages of support for EM from across Canada and abroad.

Outside the courthouse, demonstrators gathered in support of EM. Among them was activist Fabienne Haller, who called the verdict “devastating” and said it could have long-term implications for how sexual assault cases are handled in the country.

“This case will influence the next decade, and even more, of how sexual assault cases are going to be dealt with,” Haller said.

Broader implications for Canada’s legal and sports institutions

The trial has reignited national conversations about consent, accountability in sports culture, and the legal system’s treatment of sexual assault survivors. Hockey Canada has already faced backlash for its handling of the allegations, prompting internal reforms and changes to how it addresses misconduct claims.

As of now, it remains unclear whether the Crown intends to appeal the decision. Legal experts say that while appeals are possible, overturning an acquittal based on judicial assessment of witness credibility is rare.

For the five players, the verdict may mark the end of a long legal battle—but the public scrutiny and reputational damage may continue for some time.