Former senator Don Meredith was acquitted on Wednesday in his trial on charges of sexual assault. This marks the conclusion of a prolonged Senate scandal that damaged the institution’s reputation as a secure work environment and highlighted the challenges of ousting a problematic member.
Meredith, who stepped down from his position in 2017 to avoid expulsion over an alleged sexual relationship with a minor, faced accusations of sexual assault and criminal harassment from a former employee. The employee testified that Meredith engaged in unwelcome physical contact, including kissing and touching, and misused his authority as a parliamentarian.
During the trial, the employee recounted incidents where Meredith used endearing terms, hugged, kissed, and made inappropriate advances towards her. She also described an instance where Meredith exposed himself to her in a hotel room and requested her to undress during a video call. The employee stated that she refrained from reporting the harassment earlier out of fear of jeopardizing her career prospects.
Following an inquiry by the Senate ethics officer, the case was referred to the Ottawa police, resulting in criminal charges against Meredith. Despite denying all allegations, Meredith’s credibility was tested during the trial, where he and his wife provided testimony that contradicted some details raised by the employee.
Superior Court Justice Narissa Somji ultimately sided with Meredith, deeming his testimony more believable than the employee’s. The judge criticized the employee’s unreliable evidence and noted discrepancies in witness testimonies. While the Crown presented an email as evidence of inappropriate behavior, the judge questioned its validity.
After the verdict, Meredith expressed gratitude and relief, attributing the outcome to divine intervention. He declined to comment on the employee involved. Prosecutors opted not to make a statement post-verdict.
An investigation into workplace misconduct in Meredith’s office revealed a toxic environment, leading to a statement of regret from the Senate and a significant compensation payout to affected employees. Earlier reports had cited Meredith’s breach of the Senate’s ethics code due to an inappropriate relationship with a minor.
Meredith’s resignation before facing expulsion allowed him to receive his Senate pension. The conclusion of the trial brings closure to a troubling chapter in the Senate’s history.