Judge Says Stronach Trial Cross-Examination Has Become a ‘Shouting Match’

Overview

• Ontario Superior Court Justice Anne Molloy warned the defence’s right to a meaningful cross-examination is at risk as she repeatedly intervened to manage the witness’s interruptions.
• The sixth complainant, a 73-year-old woman, grew emotional on the stand and struggled to stay focused, prompting frequent pauses and judicial direction.
• Crown prosecutors withdrew one count of forcible confinement related to this complainant on Wednesday.
• Defence lawyer Leora Shemesh told the court she had to ask questions multiple times as tensions rose during cross-examination.
• The complainant testified that Stronach took her to his Harbourfront condo after meeting at his restaurant in 1986 and sexually assaulted her, saying she recognized him months later from a newspaper photo; Stronach, 93, denies all allegations and has pleaded not guilty.