Former Ontario Minister Michael Thompson Acquitted of Sexual Assault Charges

In a significant legal development, former Ontario cabinet minister Michael Thompson has been acquitted of sexual assault and assault charges stemming from an incident in a Muskoka cottage in 2021. The verdict, delivered by Justice Brent Knazan in a Toronto court, concluded a case that saw Thompson step down from his role as a Progressive Conservative MPP and cabinet minister following the initial allegations.

Thompson, who represented Scarborough Centre, was accused of sexually assaulting and assaulting a woman during a late-night gathering at a cottage.

The complainant testified that Thompson put his hands down her shirt and sexually touched her without consent, and also assaulted her when she tried to intervene in an argument between Thompson and another man. Thompson vehemently denied the allegations, maintaining that any contact was consensual and that he never assaulted her.

Justice Knazan's ruling highlighted inconsistencies and credibility issues in the complainant's testimony.

He found that aspects of her account, particularly regarding the timing and nature of the alleged sexual touching, did not align with other evidence presented. The judge also noted discrepancies in her memory and a lack of specific details about key moments. While acknowledging that some gaps in memory are natural for a complainant, Justice Knazan determined that the inconsistencies in this case created a reasonable doubt regarding her allegations.

Crucially, the judge stated that he could not find beyond a reasonable doubt that Thompson had committed the alleged sexual assault.

He also found that the Crown had not proven that Thompson assaulted the complainant during the altercation, accepting Thompson's testimony that he did not intend to harm her. Justice Knazan emphasized that his decision was not a finding that the alleged events did not occur, but rather that the evidence presented did not meet the high legal threshold for conviction.

Thompson's defence team argued that the complainant's story evolved over time and was unreliable.

They pointed to her admitted consumption of alcohol and cannabis, suggesting it impacted her recollection. Thompson himself testified, offering his version of events, which the judge found credible in key areas. The Crown had sought a conviction, presenting the complainant's testimony as central to their case.

Following the verdict, Thompson expressed profound relief and gratitude.

Speaking outside the courthouse, he thanked his legal team, his family, and supporters for standing by him throughout the arduous process. He reiterated his unwavering denial of the allegations and spoke of the immense toll the past two and a half years had taken on his life and reputation. Thompson indicated that he is now focused on rebuilding his life and considering his future, though he did not specify if he plans to return to politics.

The case garnered significant public attention due to Thompson's prominent political career.

He served as a minister for several portfolios, including government and consumer services, and was a long-serving Toronto city councillor before entering provincial politics. His swift resignation from cabinet and the Progressive Conservative caucus in 2022 underscored the serious nature of the allegations.

His acquittal marks the end of a challenging chapter for the former politician, allowing him to move forward with his life.