Former senator Don Meredith has been acquitted in his sexual assault trial, marking the conclusion of a lengthy Senate scandal that marred the institution’s reputation and highlighted the challenges in removing a problematic member. Meredith, who resigned from the Senate in 2017 before facing expulsion over allegations of a sexual relationship with a teenager, faced multiple charges including sexual assault and criminal harassment related to his treatment of a former employee.
During the trial, the former employee testified that Meredith engaged in unwanted physical contact, including hugging, kissing, and inappropriate behavior while in a position of power. The employee also detailed incidents such as being asked to remove clothing during a virtual call and wear revealing attire. Despite these allegations, the court found Meredith not guilty, with the judge emphasizing inconsistencies in the accuser’s testimony and the unreliability of evidence presented.
Following the verdict, Meredith expressed gratitude for the outcome, attributing it to faith and acknowledging the challenges faced by him and his family. The Crown attorneys declined to comment on the decision. The trial shed light on workplace allegations against Meredith, with a Senate ethics report revealing a toxic work environment created by the former senator’s harassment of multiple employees. Despite these findings, Meredith’s resignation prior to a potential expulsion allowed him to retain his Senate pension.
The Senate issued a statement of regret for the employees affected by Meredith’s behavior, agreeing to a compensation settlement. The history of misconduct by Meredith, including breaching the ethics code for inappropriate relationships, had previously led to calls for his expulsion from the Senate. However, his resignation preempted such measures, concluding a chapter of controversy surrounding his tenure in public office.
