WARNING: This story references sexual assault allegations and may affect those who have experienced sexual violence or know someone affected by it.
The defense lawyer for Frank Stronach continues cross-examining the fifth complainant in the 93-year-old businessman’s sexual assault trial at a Toronto courthouse.
Stronach faces 12 charges, including sexual assault and forcible confinement. Two counts—rape and attempted rape—stem from historical allegations predating the 1983 Criminal Code amendments that introduced sexual assault offenses. The founder of auto-parts giant Magna International denies all allegations and has entered not guilty pleas.
Fifth Complainant’s Testimony
The woman, fifth of seven female complainants whose allegations span 1977 to 1990, testified that she met Stronach through a mutual friend in the early 1980s.
In early November 1990, she encountered him at a hotel restaurant in Markham or Scarborough while awaiting a client. Stronach joined her table, they conversed briefly, and he requested her phone number. They scheduled a meeting for the next day.
During that meeting, shortly after giving birth, the woman grew emotional discussing her recent breakup. Stronach offered sympathy, consoled her, and invited her to his hotel suite to continue talking. There, she alleges, he raped her.
Defense Challenges Credibility
Defense lawyer Leora Shemesh began cross-examination Monday afternoon, scrutinizing inconsistencies between the woman’s court testimony and prior police statements, particularly the timeline of their initial meeting.
Shemesh questioned the woman’s denial of seeing media coverage about Stronach, noting it contradicted earlier police interviews.
Shemesh highlighted the woman’s involvement in 25 lawsuits, including claims of fraud and falsifying contracts. The woman rejected the falsification accusation, attributing some suits to poor record-keeping and lack of legal expertise.
Shemesh also raised an ongoing lawsuit from a man alleging false arrest and detention based on the woman’s claims. The woman denied any false arrest, asserting he had threatened her life.
