Regina, Canada – Closing arguments in the trial of Ruben Manz, a Regina-based chiropractor accused of multiple counts of sexual assault, have concluded, setting the stage for jury deliberations. Charged with seven counts of sexual assault, Manz was arrested in April 2021 when two former clients alleged inappropriate behaviour during their sessions, which reportedly occurred over a decade.
Throughout the nearly month-long trial, testimony was heard from the seven complainants and the defendant. Expert witnesses were also called by both the prosecution and defense, shedding light on the nuances of chiropractic practice and patient care standards.
The closing arguments of the defense were delivered on Wednesday, emphasizing that Manz was performing his professional duties. However, the prosecution presented a starkly contrasting view on Thursday—this delay was due to timing constraints that prohibited court proceedings past 4:30 p.m. on Wednesday.
Prosecutor Jackie Lane argued emphatically that Manz’s actions were intentional, questioning the possibility of repeated, unintentional inappropriate contact. Lane highlighted the improbability of accidentally touching patients in such a manner consistently over multiple sessions.
Lane also challenged the defense’s portrayal of the inconsistencies in the victims’ recollections, commending the women for their courage in coming forward, often years after the alleged incidents. She argued that their delayed reporting does not diminish the credibility of their claims but rather underscores the difficulties victims face in sexual assault cases.
In a powerful closing, Lane urged the jurors to critically assess the detailed testimonies provided by the complainants compared to Manz’s account, focusing on the clarity and consistency of the victims’ recounting of events.
Justice Janet McMurtry presided over the case and expressed gratitude to the 13 jurors for their dedicated service throughout the trial. She provided initial instructions on the legal standards they must uphold, particularly the requirement that Manz’s guilt must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
The complete set of instructions will be delivered to the jury on Friday morning, after which they will begin their deliberations. The jury, which will be reduced to 12 members by a random selection process of one member before sequestration, is tasked with reaching a unanimous verdict on each of the seven charges.
As the community awaits the outcome, this high-profile case underscores the significant challenges and sensitivities involved in legal proceedings concerning allegations of sexual assault, particularly involving trusted medical professionals. The case also highlights the importance of consent and the legal boundaries of medical treatment.
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