By Canadian Press

Lawyer for ex-hostage Boyle cites dangers of mid-trial appeal about evidence

May 15, 2019 | 11:14 AM

OTTAWA — A lawyer for Joshua Boyle is suggesting a mid-trial appeal on a point of evidence could endanger the timely completion of the former Afghanistan hostage’s assault trial.

Eric Granger is telling a judge today that the challenge by Boyle’s estranged wife Caitlan Coleman, the alleged victim, is resulting in “fragmented proceedings” that might run afoul of strict limits intended to ensure the constitutional right to be tried within a reasonable time.

Boyle, 35, has pleaded not guilty in Ontario court to offences against Coleman, 33, including assault, sexual assault and unlawful confinement.

The offences are alleged to have occurred in late 2017 after the couple returned to Canada following five years as captives of extremists who seized them during an ill-fated backpacking trip to Asia.

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Coleman’s lawyer, Ian Carter, is asking a Superior Court to review a recent ruling that allows Boyle to introduce evidence concerning certain consensual sexual activity with his wife.

Granger says the side hearing now playing out is unnecessary because sufficient safeguards are already built into the process.

The Canadian Press