Steven Galloway’s wife, Katie Wager, took the stand as the first witness in the defamation trial against four individuals accused of falsely labeling the former University of British Columbia professor as a sexual assailant.
During her testimony, Wager recounted how Galloway learned of the allegations while he was attending a speaking engagement in Ohio in late 2015. She described finding him in a hospital on a 72-hour suicide watch, visibly distressed and denying the accusations against him.
The primary defendant in the case is a former student known as “AB,” who alleged that Galloway sexually assaulted her. Other defendants, including individuals who propagated the assault claims on social media, are also named in the lawsuit.
Galloway, a renowned Canadian author, faced termination from his tenured position as a professor and department chair at UBC without any criminal charges filed against him. A report by retired B.C. Supreme Court judge Mary Ellen Boyd, commissioned by UBC, concluded that the accusations lacked substantiation. Following arbitration, Galloway received over $240,000 in damages from the university.
Wager mentioned that despite the report’s findings, online communities continued to spread the allegations, causing ongoing distress to Galloway and his family.
‘Never going to be an end’
Wager highlighted the relentless nature of the online backlash, particularly on platforms like Twitter, expressing a sense of never-ending scrutiny and criticism.
She testified to the detrimental impact of the accusations on their children, finances, and overall well-being, detailing instances where Galloway exhibited severe emotional distress, including suicide attempts.
Multiple defamation lawsuits were filed by Galloway in 2018, with the accused parties invoking free speech protections. The Supreme Court of Canada declined to hear the case, upholding a lower court ruling that deemed the accusations defamatory.
Several defendants have settled out of court or issued public apologies, acknowledging the harm caused by their statements. Galloway’s legal team is seeking special damages to compensate for the damage to his reputation and career.
AB, the accuser, has requested anonymity due to fears of online harassment. Her legal counsel revealed instances of attempted suicide and concerns over online comments revealing her identity.
The trial, initially slated for 60 days, is now expected to last around 20 days following the exclusion of some defendants, according to B.C. Supreme Court Justice Neena Sharma.
If you or someone you know is in need of support, here are some resources:
- Canada’s Suicide Crisis Helpline: Call or text 988.
- Provincial and territorial mental health support.
- Kids Help Phone: 1-800-668-6868. Text 686868. Live chat counseling on the website.
- This guide from the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health offers advice on discussing suicide with someone in need.
