A new twist emerged yesterday in the ongoing sexual assault trial of Toronto City Councillor Michael Thompson, as his defense team signaled they may seek a mistrial following key testimony developments.
The courtroom at Old City Hall fell silent when defense counsel announced they were considering the motion after what they described as “potentially prejudicial testimony” from one of the complainants during cross-examination.
Thompson, who represents Scarborough Centre and serves as Toronto’s longest-serving councillor, has maintained his innocence since charges were first laid in September 2022. The allegations stem from incidents allegedly occurring at a Muskoka cottage in July of that year.
“The defense position appears to center on testimony that may have introduced elements previously ruled inadmissible,” noted criminal defense attorney Melissa Rosenthal, who is not involved in the case but has been following its developments. “In sexual assault trials, the court is extremely careful about what evidence jurors can consider.”
The trial has attracted significant attention across Toronto, particularly given Thompson’s prominence as a six-term councillor first elected in 2003. Prior to these allegations, he served as deputy mayor under John Tory and chaired the city’s economic development committee.
Court documents reveal that Thompson faces charges related to alleged incidents involving two women. His legal team has vigorously contested the allegations throughout pre-trial proceedings and the trial itself.
Yesterday’s proceedings were halted temporarily as Justice Peter Fraser conferred with both legal teams. Sources close to the case indicate the judge may rule on the mistrial motion when court reconvenes tomorrow morning.
Toronto Police Service has maintained a careful approach to the case, with investigators from the Sex Crimes Unit handling the matter since initial complaints were filed.
The trial has broader implications for City Hall operations, where Thompson had already stepped back from certain duties while maintaining his council seat. Mayor Olivia Chow has declined to comment directly on the proceedings, citing the ongoing legal process.
Community response has been mixed, with some constituents expressing continued support for Thompson while others have called for his resignation regardless of the trial outcome.
“What we’re witnessing speaks to the complexities of our justice system,” said Dr. Alison Hammond, professor of legal ethics at the University of Toronto. “The mistrial motion illustrates how carefully balanced the proceedings must be to ensure fairness to all parties.”
Court officials indicate the trial, originally expected to last three weeks, could face significant delays if a mistrial is declared. Should that occur, prosecutors would need to determine whether to pursue a new trial.
The proceedings continue tomorrow at 10 a.m.
