A young man testifying against Tony Humby in a sexual abuse case objected to defense lawyer Mark Gruchy’s choice of terminology during a tense cross-examination. The man, who remains anonymous due to a publication ban, expressed frustration over Gruchy repeatedly using the phrase “having sex” to describe the alleged incidents between him and Humby. He clarified that he was not “having sex” but rather being molested and raped.
Despite Gruchy questioning the man’s memory due to past drug abuse, the man vehemently asserted that he vividly remembers the traumatic events, emphasizing how it stripped away his dignity and altered his self-perception. The exchange became more heated as Gruchy probed about inconsistencies in the man’s accounts given to the court and the police in previous interviews.
Crown prosecutor Deidre Badcock raised objections to Gruchy’s line of questioning, leading to debates and delays as the witness, testifying virtually from jail, was muted. Despite objections, Judge Rolf Pritchard allowed Gruchy to continue questioning. The man, visibly frustrated, declined breaks and insisted on completing his testimony.
The man recounted meeting Humby at a young age and being assaulted on their first encounter after being plied with substances and money. He described Humby as manipulative, initially appearing friendly before turning predatory. The man also disclosed discussions with another complainant about seeking revenge through a home invasion but ultimately chose to report the abuse to the authorities.
Acknowledging his criminal past, the man highlighted the lasting impact of the alleged abuse on his life and others. Gruchy concluded his cross-examination, with four more complainants expected to testify in the ongoing trial against Humby, who faces 72 charges related to the sexual abuse of 11 youth complainants.