Carter Hart #79 of the Philadelphia Flyers (Credit: Getty Image) The hockey sexual assault trial involving five former members of the 2018 Canadian World Junior Team has unfolded dramatically over seven weeks, and much of the courtroom narrative has been shaped by evidence uncovered through multiple rounds of discovery, from the initial police investigation in 2018 to reopened efforts by Hockey Canada and London Police in 2022. The trial has been driven by layers of interviews, digital evidence, and contradictions.
Emotional testimony added weight to digital evidence
The complainant, referred to as E.M. due to a publication ban, spent nine days on the stand. Her testimony, at times tearful and visibly distressing, highlighted her version of events in detail. She described feelings of fear, dissociation, and powerlessness. These statements were at odds with video evidence and text messages that suggested consent, leading to a battle of credibility between witness accounts and physical evidence.Other witnesses, including players and former teammates, testified remotely and in person. Taylor Raddysh and Boris Katchouk offered accounts of brief visits to the hotel room. Tyler Steenbergen claimed other players had asked him to stay silent. Brett Howden’s testimony grew contentious, especially after texts between him and another player were ruled inadmissible. Despite all this, only Carter Hart among the five accused chose to testify. Also, he insisted his actions were consensual and respectful.
Crown cross-examines Carter Hart in hockey sexual assault trial
Trial setbacks and disruptions added complexity
The court proceedings have been marked by repeated disruptions, and the original trial began in April 2025. This ended in a mistrial after a juror and defence lawyer crossed paths during a lunch break. With the final witness testimony complete, closing arguments are set to begin June 9. Each defence lawyer will present their interpretation of the evidence, followed by the Crown. The trial judge, Justice Maria Carroccia, will then decide when a ruling can be expected.Read more: Paulina Gretzky proves confidence is the ultimate accessory in spring style revelationThough no exact timeline has been given, all eyes remain on what her verdict will mean for the future of the accused and Hockey Canada’s long-standing reckoning.