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The jury within the Jacob Hoggard sexual assault trial has failed to succeed in a verdict and can resume Friday.
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However at the very least they’re nonetheless deliberating.
Earlier within the day, the 10-man, two-woman jury advised Ontario Superior Court docket Justice Gillian Roberts that that they had reached an deadlock, or as she advised the attorneys, “they’re caught.”
The deadlocked jury, which started deliberations Tuesday afternoon, despatched a observe Thursday morning: “Your Honour, we’re unable to agree unanimously on some counts.”
The previous frontman of Hedley has pleaded not responsible to 2 counts of sexual assault inflicting bodily hurt — one involving a 16-year-old fan and the opposite, an Ottawa school pupil he met on Tinder, and to 1 rely of sexual interference involving the primary complainant when she was 15.
Roberts known as the jury into court docket and urged them to strive once more.
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“Relaxation assured, everyone knows how arduous you’ve been working, and we’re very grateful for that,” she mentioned.
“In gentle of your observe, I’ve some additional directions for you: members of the jury, you’ve gotten reported that you just’re having hassle reaching a unanimous verdict on some counts. It’s not necessary, however clearly fascinating that you just achieve this.”
Roberts mentioned she may discharge them on the counts the place they’re deadlocked, however believed it was too quickly to take action.
She inspired them to contemplate everybody’s opinion and preserve an open thoughts.
“Members of the jury,” Roberts concluded, “would you please strive as soon as once more to succeed in a verdict?”
They went again into the jury room and returned twice throughout the afternoon with two additional notes — each asking questions concerning the proof.
“You’ve had a protracted day,” Roberts advised them, “so for those who’re executed for the day, that’s completely positive.”
And so the jury retired for the night time.
mmandel@postmedia.com
