In the defamation trial against four defendants, former University of British Columbia (UBC) professor Steven Galloway’s wife testified as the first witness. Galloway accuses them of falsely claiming he sexually assaulted a former student known as “AB”, who is the main defendant. Others implicated in spreading the accusation include individuals who shared it on social media.
Katie Wagner informed the court that Galloway learned of the accusation while at a speaking engagement in Ohio in late 2015. Upon her arrival in Ohio to support him, she found Galloway in a hospital under 72-hour suicide watch, distraught and aware of the sexual assault allegation. Wagner recounted the confusion and distress surrounding the situation, emphasizing Galloway’s innocence.
Galloway, a prominent Canadian author, was terminated from his tenured professorship and position as chair of the UBC creative writing department, despite never facing criminal charges. An investigation by retired B.C. Supreme Court judge Mary Ellen Boyd, commissioned by UBC, concluded that the accusations against Galloway lacked substantiation. Following arbitration, he received over $240,000 in damages from the university.
‘Never going to be an end’
Wagner expressed that Boyd’s report triggered a wave of online attacks, with people continuously repeating the accusations on platforms like Twitter. She highlighted the toll the allegations took on their family, finances, and Galloway’s well-being.
Wagner detailed instances of Galloway’s extreme withdrawal and suicide attempts, including a disturbing incident where she found him trying to hang himself. She also mentioned her concerns about monitoring his medication to prevent intentional overdose.
In 2018, Galloway pursued defamation claims against multiple individuals. Despite the defendants arguing that their statements were protected speech, the Supreme Court of Canada declined to hear the case, emphasizing the legal implications of such accusations.
Several defendants have settled or issued apologies, like author Chelsea Rooney, who recently published a lengthy apology. Galloway, known for works such as The Cellist of Sarajevo and The Confabulist, is seeking special damages to compensate for the premature end to his successful literary career.
AB, the main accuser, has requested anonymity due to fears of online harassment. Her counsel disclosed her suicide attempts and concerns about online exposure despite efforts to maintain confidentiality.
The trial, initially set for 60 days, is expected to conclude in approximately 20 days following the reduction in defendants, as indicated by B.C. Supreme Court Justice Neena Sharma.
If you or someone you know is struggling, here’s where to look for help:
- Canada’s Suicide Crisis Helpline: Call or text 988.
- Provincial and territorial mental health support</a
