Ongoing hockey players' sexual assault trial as court listens to police interrogations
Five former members of Canada's world junior hockey team are standing trial for sexual assault, and proceedings resumed today following the presentation of statements given by some of the accused to police months after the alleged incident.
In court on Wednesday, Detective Steve Newton's interviews with Alex Formenton and Dillon Dube were played, a day after McLeod's interview was presented. The retired detective who spearheaded the initial investigation testified that he had formed a general assessment of the case before speaking with the players, indicating he did not believe he had sufficient grounds to file charges.
All five accused — Michael McLeod, Formenton, Dube, Carter Hart, and Callan Foote — have pleaded not guilty to sexual assault, with McLeod also pleading not guilty to an additional charge of being an accomplice to the offense. The charges stem from an encounter in a London, Ontario hotel room on June 19, 2018, during the team's celebrations for their championship win.
Study facilities and resources are available for individuals coping with sexual assault or trauma. These include sexual assault centers across Canada, helplines, legal services, and locations that offer sexual assault kits in several provinces. The Canadian Association of Sexual Assault Centres offers extensive information, advocacy, and counseling services, while specific resources for various regions are listed here.
The case has garnered attention due to its association with Hockey Canada and the widespread interest in sexual assault cases involving high-profile athletes. In late May 2025, significant developments were made, such as the conclusion of the Crown's presentation of evidence, the commencement of defence testimony, and the start of cross-examination proceedings.
As of May 30, 2025, the trial is ongoing in London, Ontario, with the cross-examination of Carter Hart underway. While McLeod's defence will not be presenting additional evidence, the trial is expected to continue in the coming days.
Today, the cross-examination of Carter Hart is ongoing in the trial of the five former members of Canada's world junior hockey team, including Hart, who are standing trial for sexual assault. Meanwhile, the general-news category on various news platforms has been filling up with updates on this case, given its association with high-profile athletes and Hockey Canada.
