TORONTO — An Ontario judge is suggesting billionaire businessman Frank Stronach will eventually be found not guilty on some of the charges he faces as his sexual assault trial continues in Toronto.
Ontario Superior Court Justice Anne Molloy indicated this afternoon that a not-guilty verdict would be entered on a charge of attempted rape after the Crown conceded it could not meet the necessary threshold on the mens rea, or mental state, of the accused.
The judge said, however, that she didn’t think “now is the time to do it.”
Molloy also said a not-guilty verdict would be entered on charges related to the sixth of the seven complainants, but did not specify when that would happen.
The sixth complainant took the stand last week but did not finish cross-examination due to health concerns. Prosecutors had withdrawn a charge of forcible confinement and sought to withdraw a charge of sexual assault related to that complainant.
Molloy’s comments come days after prosecutors finished presenting their evidence and as the defence prepares to make its case next week.
Stronach, who achieved fame and wealth as the founder of the auto parts giant Magna International, initially pleaded not guilty to 12 charges involving seven complainants.
All seven women have testified since the trial began mid-February, as has a friend and colleague of one of the complainants.
Court reconvened briefly Friday afternoon for legal arguments after taking a break Thursday to allow lawyers to prepare and consult on outstanding issues.
This report by The Canadian Press was first published March 6, 2026.
The Canadian Press
