Crown Challenges Key Witness Over Testimony Inconsistencies At Hockey Canada Sexual Assault Trial

In the Hockey Canada sexual assault trial, Brett Howden, a Las Vegas Golden Knights player and key Crown witness, faced scrutiny over inconsistencies in his testimony regarding the June 2018 incident involving five of his former teammates. Crown prosecutor Meaghan Cunningham accused Howden of feigning memory loss to protect the accused players, citing 18 areas where his courtroom testimony differed from prior statements given to police and investigators. Justice Maria Carroccia ruled against allowing cross-examination on his memory inconsistencies but acknowledged some contradictions could be questioned. The accused players, including Michael McLeod, Dillon Dubé, Carter Hart, Alex Formenton, and Cal Foote, pleaded not guilty to sexual assault charges related to an alleged group sexual assault following a Hockey Canada gala. The complainant alleged she engaged in consensual sex with McLeod before being invited to participate in group sexual activity, a claim contested by defense lawyers. The trial has been marked by delays, including a juror's complaint against defense counsel, and continues as Howden’s testimony and the credibility of witnesses remain central issues.