Sometime on Thursday, a verdict will given to five hockey players accused of sexually assaulting a woman during the 2018 World Juniors. The five players had pleaded not guilty to the accusations. While there is no verdict yet, it appears the evidence will not be circumstantial enough for a guilty verdict.
Update Regarding Sexual Assault Trial
Justice Maria Carroccia says “I do not find the evidence of E.M. to be either credible or reliable” in sexual assault case of Canada 2018 World Juniors players. “Crown cannot meet onus on any counts.”
No official verdict yet.
— NHL News (@PuckReportNHL) July 24, 2025
Justice Maria Carroccia is presiding over the case and has analyzed the evidence and testimony. While a guilty verdict is unlikely right now, Justice Carroccia has not made a final ruling.
The Case
Michael McLeod, Dillon Dube, Callan Foote, Alex Formenton and Carter Hart are the players on trial for allegedly engaging in non-consensual sexual activity with a woman who was 20-years at the time of the event. Her name has not been revealed to the public.
In January of 2024, the players were ordered to turn themselves in. The trial started on April 23rd of this year. It was an interesting case to say the least. The jury was dismissed after accusations that the defence attorneys were mocking them. Justice Carroccia dismissed the jury to protect the fairness of the trial. After that, both sides agreed that the judge alone would make the final ruling.
NHL Future?
Even if found not guilty, the five players could still face discipline from the NHL. Commissioner Gary Bettman has elected to not commit to a punishment or even decide if the five players would be allowed to return to the NHL. He is likely to remain quiet on the matter until the verdict is announced and the trial ends.
Main Photo: Kyle Ross- Imagn Images
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