Verdict in Hockey Canada Trial Sparks Concerns Over Support for Survivors of Sexual Assault

Strategic Insights -

In a courtroom drama, five members of the 2018 Canadian world junior hockey team were acquitted of the alleged sexual assault of a woman in a London, Ont. hotel. The verdict has left social service providers and advocates concerned about the potential impact on survivors of sexual assault.

Jennifer Dunn, executive director of the London Abused Women's Centre, expressed her concerns about the judge's verdict and how it may affect survivors. "There is just this overarching fear of not being believed," she said. "After what happened yesterday, I think it's a real possibility that some may choose to stay silent."

Key Takeaways:

  • Jennifer Dunn, executive director of the London Abused Women's Centre, voiced her concerns about the judge's verdict and its potential impact on survivors.
  • The verdict may deter survivors from seeking help, with Dunn stating that it's a "real possibility that some may choose to stay silent."
  • Dunn noted that the judge's comments attacked the complainant, E.M., and placed responsibility on her instead of the accused players.
  • Dunn emphasized that her organization never presses survivors to report to the police, but they can provide support if individuals choose to.
  • Susan McNair, medical director of the Regional Sexual Assault and Domestic Violence Treatment Program, expressed concern about the potential shift in survivors' willingness to seek help.
  • The program, one of 37 across the province, is committed to providing choice and confidentiality to survivors.

Statistics:

  • 5 members of the 2018 Canadian world junior hockey team were accused of the alleged sexual assault of a woman in a London, Ont. hotel.
  • 1 woman, known as E.M., testified against the accused players.
  • 1 judge, Justice Maria Carroccia, delivered the verdict, concluding that the Crown had not met its burden of proof.
  • See also the statistics in this article on the number of sexual assault programs, number of hours of operation per day, and number of days per week that the Regional Sexual Assault and Domestic Violence Treatment Program operates.

Sources:

  • Byline: Robyn Doolittle; Staff LONDON, ONT.
  • MS. DUNN
  • Justice Maria Carroccia
  • Regional Sexual Assault and Domestic Violence Treatment Program
  • St. Joseph's Hospital
  • Cassandra Fisher, clinical manager of the program
  • Susan McNair, medical director of the program