Watchdog calls for changes to how justice system treats sexual violence survivors

By Canadian Press on November 19, 2025.

OTTAWA — The federal ombudsperson for victims of crime is calling for reforms to improve how survivors of sexual violence are treated by the criminal justice system.

Benjamin Roebuck says too many survivors describe their experiences with the justice system as more harmful than the assault itself.

His office has released a new report based on an 18-month investigation involving interviews with survivors, police, Crown and defence attorneys and judges.

It found the 2016 Jordan ruling by the Supreme Court of Canada, which established timelines to limit unreasonable criminal trial delays, is causing serious sexual assault charges to be stayed.

Roebuck says that means survivors are left without justice after years of waiting.

The report also identifies numerous other issues, including the impact on survivors when their therapy and counselling records are subpoenaed.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Nov. 19, 2025.

Anja Karadeglija, The Canadian Press