Hoggard decision is a step backward for sexual-assault trials

Judge’s rejection of the need for expert evidence on trauma undermines educational efforts to keep judges and juries from relying on rape myths.

Stereotypes and rape myths about “real” victim responses continue to undermine fairness in the criminal-justice system. In an important decision concerning musician Jacob Hoggard, the Ontario Court of Appeal has taken a step backward, making impartial processing of sexual-assault cases more difficult. Link to full article here.