Trial begins for man accused of sexually assaulting woman during 11-hour ordeal at Calgary hotel

WARNING: This story contains graphic content. Discretion is advised.

The trial for a man accused of sexually assaulting a woman he met through a dating website began on Monday.

Vasilios “Billy” Georgopolus, 39, faces four charges: sexual assault causing bodily harm, forcible confinement, uttering threats, and while allegedly assaulting the woman threatening her with the use of a weapon.

In testimony Monday, a toxicologist said blood and urine samples from the woman she tested showed evidence of several drugs including GHB, Methamphetamine, Cocaine and Acetone.

Megan Wagner, a toxicology expert with the RCMP testified via video conference that GHB affects the central nervous system.

“Reduced inhibition, slurred speech, drowsiness and a reduced level of consciousness can be effects of the drug GHB,” Wagner said.

Wagner testified that GHB is detectable in the blood for nine hours after consumption and for up to 18 hours in the urine.

She did agree with defence lawyer Dale Fedorchuk in cross-examination that the presence of GHB does not suggest the drug was administered by someone else and she couldn’t say what level of the drug would cause memory impairment.

In October 2017, police said the victim was prevented from leaving a hotel room for 11 hours, during which time they allege she was physically and sexually assaulted and burned.

Police say the victim and her alleged attacker had made arrangements to meet at the southwest Calgary hotel.

The victim is expected to testify Tuesday.