UBC Paid Accuser to Participate in Steven Galloway Inquiry
Testimony reveals university funds supported accuser's legal and therapy costs during investigation.
1Financial Support During Inquiry
Testimony in the B.C. Supreme Court revealed that the University of British Columbia provided funds to an accuser, identified as A.B., to facilitate her participation in an independent investigation. Mandi Gray, a criminology professor, testified that these payments were intended to cover the student's legal fees and necessary therapy costs.
2Context of the Investigation
The inquiry was launched in late 2015 after A.B. brought sexual assault and harassment allegations against Steven Galloway, then chair of the creative-writing program. Former B.C. Supreme Court justice Mary Ellen Boyd led the independent investigation. Galloway was suspended from his position at the university shortly after these allegations surfaced.
3Defamation Lawsuit Details
Steven Galloway filed a defamation lawsuit in 2018 against nearly two dozen defendants, including A.B. and Mandi Gray. Galloway claims the allegations destroyed his reputation, career, and personal life. While many defendants have settled, the trial continues for A.B., Gray, Dana Kagis, and Glynnis Kirchmeier, who is representing herself in court.
4Nature of the Payments
Mandi Gray testified that she discussed the university's financial arrangement with A.B. during late 2015. She confirmed that the funds were provided to help A.B. meaningfully participate in the Boyd investigation. Gray stated she did not know the specific total amount paid by the university to the former student for these purposes.
5Accuser's Legal Threats
Court records indicate that A.B. previously threatened to sue the University of British Columbia for up to $3 million. Her potential claims included negligence and breach of contract. Justice Neena Sharma recently denied a media request to access documents regarding this draft statement of claim, citing ongoing legal proceedings and closing arguments.
6Mental Health and Testimony
A.B. is not testifying at the current trial due to a prolonged mental health crisis, which her lawyers described as severe. Her legal team reported that she has made two suicide attempts this year. Consequently, her defense strategies regarding truth and fair comment were withdrawn at the start of the trial proceedings.
7Previous Financial Disputes
The court previously heard that A.B. was awarded a $30,000 bursary after graduating in 2015. Steven Galloway testified that she was not entitled to this money. Mandi Gray stated during cross-examination that she was unsure if the bursary funds were identical to the payments provided by the university for the investigation.
8Broader Institutional Implications
This trial highlights the complexities universities face when managing sexual misconduct allegations and internal investigations. The case underscores the tension between institutional transparency, the protection of complainants, and the rights of the accused. As the trial concludes, the legal outcomes may influence how academic institutions handle future internal misconduct inquiries.