Reaction was swift after five former junior hockey players were acquitted Thursday in a high-profile sexual assault trial that captured national attention.
Here's a look at what key people had to say in the immediate aftermath of the judge's not guilty ruling for Michael McLeod, Carter Hart, Alex Formenton, Dillon Dube and Callan Foote.
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"Justice Carroccia's carefully reasoned decision represents a resounding vindication for Mr. McLeod and his co-defendants. ... The damage to Mr. McLeod's reputation and his career has been significant. But today's decision begins to restore what was very unfairly taken away from him." — David Humphrey, a lawyer for Michael McLeod
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"A criminal trial is rarely an opportunity for vindication — here it is. It is both gratifying and unsurprising to hear an impartial and fully informed decisionmaker accept Mr. Hart's testimony about what happened. ... To anyone who is surprised or angered by today's outcome, it is the direct result of the media's ongoing failure to publicize the weaknesses in the prosecution's case as it unfolded." — Megan Savard, a lawyer for Carter Hart
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"This case stands to the fact that we must never lose sight of the fundamental right to be presumed innocent. Now more than ever before, a fair response to sexual assault claims requires a balanced perspective and public trust in the decision making of the courts." — Daniel Brown, a lawyer for Alex Formenton
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"This decision comes as a result of careful deliberation by her honour. She engaged with the evidence in a thoughtful, methodical and principled manner. Her reasons reflect not only a command of the legal principles at stake, but also a deep sense of responsibility in assessing the evidence, applying the law and demonstrating a strong commitment to justice." — Julia Santarossa, a lawyer for Dillon Dube
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"At the start of this trial, Cal Foote walked into this courthouse an innocent man, and he walks out today exactly that. Cal never lost faith that justice would be done despite the clamour of external pressures and agendas outside the courthouse doors. Criminal investigations and the trial process must always be free from these influences." — Julianna Greenspan, a lawyer for Cal Foote
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"The Crown's goal throughout this proceeding has been to see a fair trial, a trial that is fair to the men charged and one that is also fair to (the complainant). A fair trial is one where decisions are made based on the evidence and the law, not on stereotypes and assumptions, and where the trial process respects the security, equality and privacy rights of the victim, as well as the accused persons. We want to thank (the complainant) for coming forward and for her strength in participating in this process." — Prosecutor Meaghan Cunningham.
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"I expect many people understand that when a person summons the courage to disclose their story, the worst possible outcome is to feel disbelieved. It's a gutting experience that no one deserves. That's why today's verdict is so devastating. (The complainant) did everything in her power to recount her experience honestly and to the best of her ability. She agreed to do everything asked of her by the criminal justice system ... yet it was not enough. Now she questions what more could she have done?" — Karen Bellehumeur, the complainant's lawyer.
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"This investigation has generated important conversations at both national and international levels about sexual violence, accountability, and systemic issues within institutions, including sport. We see this as an opportunity to reflect, learn, and enhance our approach to investigating sexual violence, strengthening our training, and deepening partnerships with community organizations." — London police Chief Thai Truong
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"As the national governing body for amateur hockey in Canada, Hockey Canada recognizes our role, responsibility and duty to be a leader in delivering a sport that is rooted in safety, inclusiveness and respect. Since 2022, we have implemented significant initiatives to help transform the culture and safety of hockey, including many that were announced as part of Hockey Canada’s Action Plan. ... While important progress has been made since 2022, there is still more work to be done and we will continue to be transparent and accountable to Canadians as we drive systemic change within our National Winter Sport." — Hockey Canada statement
This report by The Canadian Press was first published July 24, 2025.
The Canadian Press
