Ontario's highest court is scheduled to hear the appeal of former fashion mogul Peter Nygard, who is challenging both his conviction for sexual assault and the sentence imposed. Nygard, 84, was found guilty in November 2023 on four counts of sexual assault and one count of forcible confinement, stemming from incidents dating back to the 1980s and 1990s. He was sentenced to 11 years in prison.
Appeal Arguments
Nygard's legal team is expected to argue that the trial judge made errors in law, including improper jury instructions and the admission of certain evidence. The Crown, meanwhile, will argue that the conviction was sound and the sentence appropriate.
Background
The charges involved five women who alleged that Nygard assaulted them at his Toronto office between 1980 and 2005. Nygard has denied all allegations and has previously pleaded not guilty. The case has drawn significant media attention due to Nygard's prominence in the fashion industry and the number of accusers.
The Ontario Court of Appeal hearing is expected to last several days, with a decision likely to be reserved. If the appeal is dismissed, Nygard will continue serving his sentence. If successful, a new trial or reduced sentence could be ordered.
Nygard also faces extradition to the United States on separate federal charges, including sex trafficking and racketeering, which he is contesting.
