Niagara Falls, Ontario, Councilor Mike Strange’s previous partner testified on Tuesday during the domestic assault trial of the former Olympian, detailing the injuries she allegedly sustained at their residence in May 2025. The trial proceedings commenced at the Ontario Court of Justice in St. Catharines with Strange entering a plea of not guilty. Strange, a former three-time Olympic light-welterweight boxer, was elected to the city council in 2014.
The testimony of Susie Mowers, Strange’s former common-law partner, was pivotal as she recounted the events that transpired. The charges against Strange stemmed from an incident where Niagara Regional Police Service officers responded to a distress call at his residence, discovering Mowers with visible injuries. The couple had been in a relationship for 13 years leading up to the altercation.
Mowers recounted a sequence of events that unfolded after a night of drinking at a local event, where an argument erupted between them regarding a past affair. She described being pushed off the bed by Strange, leading to physical violence that resulted in her sustaining severe injuries. Despite attempting to defend herself, Mowers alleged that Strange continued to assault her, causing significant harm.
Photographic evidence presented by the Crown corroborated Mowers’ account, depicting bloodstains and injuries consistent with her testimony. However, during cross-examination, Strange’s defense lawyer challenged Mowers’ recollection of events, highlighting discrepancies in her statements and suggesting an alternate version of the incident.
The trial also featured testimonies from responding police officers and emergency medical personnel, providing varying perspectives on the severity of Mowers’ injuries and the circumstances surrounding the altercation. The defense questioned Mowers’ memory and the extent of her injuries, aiming to cast doubt on her version of events.
The trial, ongoing at the Robert S. K. Welch Courthouse in downtown St. Catharines, has drawn attention from advocacy groups advocating for accountability in cases involving public officials facing criminal charges. Amidst the legal proceedings, concerns have been raised regarding Strange’s continued role as a councilor, sparking debates on the need for policies ensuring accountability and transparency in such situations.