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Rancourt trial wrapped, verdict expected later this month

The trial of Melisa Rancourt wrapped on Friday.

The defence called three more witnesses describing what they saw in the corridor of the dressing rooms after a hockey game in Espanola in February 2024.

Rancourt, who was the head coach of the Espanola team, allegedly threatened a 12-year-old player from the Walden team.

Originally charged with assault, disturbing the peace and uttering threats, the assault charge was dropped last July and the disturbing the peace charge was dropped on Thursday after security video revealed lack of evidence.

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The trial then proceeded on the uttering threats charge.

The three defence witnesses all testified that Maverine Bain, a prosecution witness, was the aggressor and Rancourt was not.

The original charges were based on testimony given by Bain and the 12-year-old player to police the day after the game, but footage shows the alleged physical contact never occurred.

In his closing remarks, the Crown prosecutor acknowledged inconsistencies in the testimony of his witnesses, but argued the judge should still accept part of their evidence since there had been words between the player and Rancourt.

A verdict is expected on April 22.

Rancourt has been suspended from duty with pay since February 2024.

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