[DV_listserv] Jian Gomeshi--The Verdict

[Domestic Violence issues]

Yesterday, the judge in the Jian Gomeshi trial (see earlier email below) rendered his verdict (Not Guilty).

It is clear from the judge's opinion (or at least the parts I've read) that his decision was based in large part on the victims' memory "issues" and his perception of their behavior as odd or, worse, designed to mislead investigators and the criminal justice system. Another explanation, one that seems to have been unexplored through expert testimony, could be that their memory issues and behavior was a result of the on-going trauma of the event. Read the judge's 24-page opinion (or excerpts thereof), here:

http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/horkins-decision-ghomeshi-1.3505808

Here's reaction from one of the survivors:

http://www.theguardian.com/world/2016/mar/25/jian-ghomeshi-trial-lucy-de-coutere-interview



From: Greenawald Erin S
Sent: Thursday, February 11, 2016 8:30 AM
To: 'dv_listserv at listsmart.osl.state.or.us' (dv_listserv at listsmart.osl.state.or.us)
Subject: Impact of Trauma on Victims/Survivors


Jian Ghomeshi was the popular host of a radio show in Canada called "Q" which continues to play on NPR, albeit with a new host. In late 2014, a number of women came forward alleging that Ghomeshi had inflicted upon them various forms of sexual assault and violence. His trial involving three of the women started last Monday. Multiple media outlets are reporting on this trial. I've linked to one article, by The Guardian, below.

Unfortunately, the victims seem to be getting demolished by the (female) defense attorney. It is clear to me reading about the victim's reactions, behavior, and memory "issues," that they have and continue to suffer from the impact of trauma associated with the violence perpetrated against them. I was happily surprised this morning to read an article appearing in a different media source about trauma and the effects it may be having on Ghomeshi's victims/survivors. Read that article below.

The Guardian: http://www.theguardian.com/world/2016/feb/01/jian-ghomeshi-trial-opens-canada-ex-radio-host

Trauma article: http://www.cbc.ca/beta/news/technology/trauma-brain-memory-neuroscience-1.3431059












Erin S. Greenawald
Sr. Assistant Attorney General | DA/LE Assistance| Criminal Justice Division
Oregon Department of Justice
2250 McGilchrist Street SE, Suite 100, Salem OR 97302
Main: 503.378.6347 | Desk: 503.934.2024 | Fax: 503.373.1937

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