Former senator Don Meredith has been acquitted in his trial for sexual assault charges, marking the conclusion of a lengthy Senate scandal that stained the institution’s reputation as a safe working environment. The case shed light on the challenges of ousting a problematic member.
Meredith, who stepped down from the Senate in 2017 to avoid expulsion over an alleged sexual relationship with a minor, faced accusations of sexual assault and criminal harassment regarding his interactions with a former employee. The employee testified that Meredith engaged in unwelcome physical contact, including kissing, touching, and making suggestive remarks, abusing his authority as a parliamentarian.
During the trial, the employee detailed incidents of inappropriate behavior, such as being called pet names, hugged, kissed, and touched inappropriately by Meredith. She also recounted instances where he made suggestive requests, including asking her to remove her top during a virtual call and to wear revealing attire. The employee disclosed that Meredith made unwanted advances during a dinner with his wife present.
The employee did not report the harassment initially due to concerns about her career prospects. The Senate ethics officer later investigated the allegations, leading to criminal charges being filed against Meredith after sufficient evidence was uncovered.
In court, Meredith denied all allegations, with both him and his wife providing testimony that contradicted some of the employee’s claims. Ultimately, Justice Narissa Somji ruled in favor of Meredith, citing inconsistencies in the employee’s testimony and supporting testimonies from other witnesses.
While the Crown presented an email as evidence of inappropriate behavior, the judge deemed it unreliable. Following the verdict, Meredith expressed gratitude and relief, stating that the ordeal had tested him and his family. When asked about the employee, he declined to comment.
The Crown attorneys did not offer any remarks following the decision. Past investigations revealed a toxic work environment in Meredith’s office, with reports of harassment and mistreatment. The Senate issued a formal apology and agreed to compensate employees who experienced misconduct.
Despite past ethics breaches, Meredith avoided expulsion by resigning from the Senate. His departure allowed him to receive his Senate pension. The case highlighted the challenges of addressing misconduct within parliamentary settings and the complexities of handling internal investigations.
If you require immediate assistance or fear for your safety, please contact 911. Support services can be found through crisis hotlines and local resources provided by the Ending Sexual Violence Association of Canada database.