GATINEAU, Que. – The Crown’s key witness in Patrick Brazeau’s assault and sexual assault trial says she feared for her life during an alleged incident two years ago.
But the suspended senator’s lawyer said it was the first time she ever made that claim.
READ MORE: Brazeau’s executive assistant testifies at his criminal trial
The female complainant, whose identity is subject to a publication ban, has alleged that Brazeau pushed her down some stairs, choked her, hit her head against a wall and a staircase, spat on her and sexually assaulted her.
After spending more than five days under cross examination by Brazeau’s lawyer, Gerald Larocque, the witness broke down on the stand.
Through an interpreter, she said, “I was afraid I was going to die.”
READ MORE: Patrick Brazeau hopes to return to Senate
Brazeau, who is being tried by judge alone, has pleaded not guilty to charges that arose from the alleged incident in February 2013.
Larocque noted the woman had never told the court, nor police that she feared for her life during the confrontation.
And the woman admitted she had never revealed that sentiment in previous statements.
Comments