Trial on two counts of historical indecent assault arising from allegations by two complainants involving abuse by an adult in positions of trust during scouting and hockey activities.
The court admitted count-to-count similar fact evidence, finding substantial connectedness in the surrounding circumstances, no evidence of collusion, and no material prejudice in a judge-alone trial.
Applying the distinction between credibility and reliability, the court found both complainants credible and their accounts reliable despite the age of the allegations, delayed disclosure, and the fact that parts of the incidents began while they were asleep or unconscious.
The court held the Crown proved both counts beyond a reasonable doubt.
