socastcmsRssStart88.7 myFM News staffsocastcmsRssEnd
Member of Ontario’s Domestic Violence Death Review Committee Erin Lee is commenting on yesterday’s verdict that saw five former hockey players acquitted in the Hockey Canada sexual assault trial.
Lee, who is also Executive Director at Lanark County Interval House, says justice has not been served.
She adds, old myths and stereotypes about sexual violence and victims of sexual violence continue to be considered viable.
Lee says that in this particular case, the victim said she was overwhelmed, but decided to move forward.
When asked about the lengthy testimony the alleged victim had to give and inconsistencies mentioned by the judge in her ruling.
Lee said she is hopeful changes will come in the legal process and lessons will be learned.
Speaking to the experience of victims testifying in such a trial, Lee says stressful and traumatic situations dimmish one’s recollection, as can fear.
Testifying and re-living the situation many times, over the course of more than a week can lead to inconsistencies.
The expert witness that Lee referenced would be able to shed light on that fact, eduating the jury, or in this case the judge before testimory began.
Education elsewhere is key to ending the cycle, she says. Lee also offered a parting message for anyone negatively affected by the verdict, or victims of violence.
