Ex-Flyers goalie Carter Hart found not guilty in Hockey Canada sexual assault case
3 minute readPublished: Thursday, July 24, 2025 at 6:56 pm
Ex-Flyers Goalie Acquitted in Hockey Canada Sexual Assault Case
Former Philadelphia Flyers goaltender Carter Hart has been found not guilty in a sexual assault case involving five former Hockey Canada players. Judge Maria Carroccia delivered the verdict Thursday afternoon, concluding a trial that lasted several weeks. The case centered around allegations of a sexual assault that occurred in June 2018 following a gala celebrating the World Juniors championship.
The complainant, identified only as E.M. due to a publication ban, alleged she was sexually assaulted by the group in a hotel room. She claimed that after a night of drinking, she went to a hotel room with Michael McLeod, who then invited other players to participate in sexual acts without her consent. E.M. alleged the men prevented her from leaving and had her record videos stating she was sober and that the acts were consensual.
Judge Carroccia stated she could not rely on E.M.'s evidence, deeming her account of events neither credible nor reliable. The Crown attorney argued that videos of E.M. giving verbal consent did not meet Canada's standard of care to ensure her actions were fully willing.
The trial was marked by procedural issues, including a mistrial and the discharge of a jury. Ultimately, the case proceeded as a bench trial. Hart, the only defendant to testify, stated E.M. was asking for guys to have sex with her and that he had her consent. He also characterized the videos as a reasonable step to take for legal protection.
The remaining defendants, Michael McLeod, Alex Formenton, Dillon Dube, and Callan Foote, await their verdicts. The charges against the players carry a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison.
BNN's Perspective:
This case highlights the complexities of sexual assault allegations and the challenges of determining truth in such sensitive situations. While the verdict of not guilty for Carter Hart has been delivered, the allegations themselves and the ongoing scrutiny of the remaining players underscore the importance of consent and the need for a thorough and fair legal process. The legal system must balance the rights of the accused with the need to protect those who allege they have been victims of sexual assault.
Keywords: Carter Hart, Hockey Canada, sexual assault, not guilty, trial, verdict, Michael McLeod, Alex Formenton, Dillon Dube, Callan Foote, E.M., consent, bench trial, Crown attorney, Philadelphia Flyers, World Juniors, legal, allegations, justice.