The article discusses the recent trial of five former world junior hockey players facing sexual assault charges stemming from an incident in June 2018. Testimony from Det. Lyndsey Ryan reveals the emotional burden on the complainant, referred to as E.M., when informed in 2022 that the case would be reopened after initially being closed in 2019 without charges. The trial has faced various procedural challenges, including a mistrial and a decision to proceed with a judge alone. The players have pleaded not guilty, emphasizing the complexities of the case.
Ryan stated that the reopening of the case 'opened up some wounds that she was trying to close,' highlighting the emotional strain faced by the complainant.
Det. Ryan recounted how overwhelmed E.M. was during their visit in 2022, saying, 'She was quite upset ... I think it was a bit overwhelming.'
The defence argues for the players' innocence, as each defendant has pleaded not guilty to the allegations stemming from the events of June 2018.
The reopening of the investigation came two years after the police initially closed it in 2019 without laying charges, unveiling complexities surrounding sexual assault cases.
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