Medical expert takes the stand in trial of Kitchener, Ont. neurologist
Warning: This article contains graphic details that some readers may find disturbing.
The trial of former Kitchener neurologist, Jeffrey Sloka, who is facing dozens of sexual assault charges, continued in court Thursday.
A medical expert qualified to speak to the standards for neurological exams took the stand as the trial continues more than a year after it began.
According to the Crown, Sloka now faces 50 counts of sexual assault.
In September of 2021, Sloka pleaded not guilty to 63 counts of sexual assault. Six counts were withdrawn at the request of the Crown.
It’s been more than three years since the first charges were laid.
These alleged incidents happened at his private practice office at the Kaufman Building at Grand River Hospital between January 2010 and July 2017.
The Crown spent the day asking neurologist Dr. Vera Bril, who was brought in as an expert, to speak on the standards for neurological exams.
The court heard that Sloka allegedly asked female patients, including some teenagers, to undress for certain physical and skin examinations, and he touched patients’ breasts and genitalia.
On the stand, Dr. Bril was asked if there is ever a reason for neurologists to touch genitalia.
Dr. Bril told the courtroom: “Neurologists should not do a vaginal exam.” Adding, “It is far outside our standard of practice. Far, far outside.”
The Crown also referenced one instance when a patient visited Sloka complaining of headaches where breast and skin exams were allegedly performed, but no documentation was made of those exams.
In response, Dr. Bril told the court, “There must be documentation of a breast exam, and there is not.”
Adding: “You have to twist your mind so much to try and get to a reason to do these exams.”
Sloka has pleaded not guilty to all counts of the charges he is facing.
The trial continues on Monday.
'Their wounds are open'
Sara Casselman, the executive director of the Sexual Assault Support Centre of Waterloo Region said these lengthy trials can reopen the wounds for survivors.
“The reality of navigating the court system is that folks — their wounds are open during this time. It’s very hard to move on when everything is still in the process,” said Casselman.
“As a sexual assault support centre, we wrap survivors in community care…so if there is someone that wants that support they can reach out to our centre,” said Casselman.
Support for those who have or are experiencing sexual assault could be found by visiting the Sexual Assault Support Centre of Waterloo Region.
A 24-hour support line can be reached by calling 519 741 8633.
CTVNews.ca Top Stories
B.C. tenants evicted for landlord's use after refusing large rent increase to take over neighbouring suite
Ashley Dickey and her mother rented part of the same Coquitlam duplex in three different decades under three different landlords.
Mountain guide dies after falling into a crevasse in Banff National Park
A man who fell into a crevasse while leading a backcountry ski group deep in the Canadian Rockies has died.
Expert warns of food consumption habits amid rising prices
A new survey by Dalhousie University's Agri-Food Analytics Lab asked Canadians about their food consumption habits amid rising prices.
MPP Sarah Jama asked to leave Ontario legislature for wearing keffiyeh
MPP Sarah Jama was asked to leave the Legislative Assembly of Ontario by House Speaker Ted Arnott on Thursday for wearing a keffiyeh, a garment which has been banned at Queen’s Park.
Charlie Woods, son of Tiger, shoots 81 in U.S. Open qualifier
Charlie Woods failed to advance in a U.S. Open local qualifying event Thursday, shooting a 9-over 81 at Legacy Golf & Tennis Club.
Ex-tabloid publisher testifies he scooped up possibly damaging tales to shield his old friend Trump
As Donald Trump was running for president in 2016, his old friend at the National Enquirer was scooping up potentially damaging stories about the candidate and paying out tens of thousands of dollars to keep them from the public eye.
Here's why provinces aren't following Saskatchewan's lead on the carbon tax home heating fight
After Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said the federal government would still send Canada Carbon Rebate cheques to Saskatchewan residents, despite Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe's decision to stop collecting the carbon tax on natural gas or home heating, questions were raised about whether other provinces would follow suit. CTV News reached out across the country and here's what we found out.
Montreal actress calls Weinstein ruling 'discouraging' but not surprising
A Montreal actress, who has previously detailed incidents she had with disgraced Hollywood producer Harvey Weinstein, says a New York Court of Appeals decision overturning his 2020 rape conviction is 'discouraging' but not surprising.
Caleb Williams, Jayden Daniels and Drake Maye make it four NFL drafts with quarterbacks going 1-3
Caleb Williams is heading to the Windy City, aiming to become the franchise quarterback Chicago has sought for decades.