CAUTION: This article discusses allegations of sexual abuse.
A man recounted how he first encountered Tony Humby as a teenager, introduced by a friend. Humby would chauffeur them, offering cigarettes and alcohol. The man revealed being sexually assaulted by Humby approximately five to 10 times, commencing when he was 17, inside Humby’s trailer near St. John’s airport.
Now in his 30s, the man displayed reluctance during his testimony in provincial court on Monday and Tuesday. Speaking slowly with crossed arms, he provided terse responses. He appeared via video from a provincial jail and requested the camera angle be adjusted to avoid facing Humby during the proceedings.
Tensions escalated during cross-examination on Tuesday, as the man used strong language and declined to answer some questions from defense lawyer Mark Gruchy. He firmly stated, “I’m not reading anything for you,” when prompted to review a statement given to the police in 2023. At another point, he expressed, “I’m forced to testify. I didn’t want to do it.”
This marked the beginning of a series of confrontational exchanges that initiated on Monday. Gruchy questioned the complainant’s memory and credibility, pointing out inconsistencies in his statements regarding his interactions with Humby over the years.
The man admitted to suffering concussions and having a prolonged history of substance abuse, both contributing to his memory lapses. He claimed to frequently suppress traumatic events, mentioning that he had entirely blocked out Humby from his memory until speaking with the Royal Newfoundland Constabulary in 2023.
Prosecution Likely to Conclude Case Next Month
This man, the sixth of 11 complainants in the case against Humby, took the stand on Monday and Tuesday. Humby faces 72 charges related to the alleged mistreatment and exploitation of vulnerable youths. The trial commenced in August and was initially planned to extend into the following spring, but additional court dates have now been scheduled until late November.
Crown prosecutor Deidre Badcock anticipates wrapping up the case before the end of November.
If you’re in immediate danger or fear for your safety or the safety of others, please dial 911. For local support, consider seeking crisis lines and services using the Ending Sexual Violence Association of Canada database.
