Frank Stronach Found Guilty of Historical Sexual Assault Charges
In a landmark judgment, Austrian-Canadian billionaire Frank Stronach has been found guilty of sexual and indecent assault charges involving two women. The 93-year-old, known for founding the automotive giant Magna, faced accusations from seven individuals, spanning incidents that occurred decades ago.
Stronach, who faced 12 charges in total, entered a plea of not guilty. However, Superior Court Justice Anne Molloy ruled against him, highlighting the credibility of the two women whose allegations led to his conviction. The judge noted their testimonies were “credible and careful,” affirming her belief in their accounts.
Despite the guilty verdicts, Stronach’s legal team expressed partial satisfaction as he was acquitted of most charges. “Mr. Stronach has been found guilty on the least serious offenses for two complainants who were not exposed in any way, he was not exposed … no one had their clothes off,” stated his lawyer, Leora Shemesh. Shemesh further remarked on Stronach’s status, describing him as a “national treasure.”
Frank Stronach gained prominence by establishing Magna in 1957, which grew into one of Canada’s leading auto parts companies. He later founded The Stronach Group, focusing on horse racing, and ventured into politics in Austria by founding his own party after stepping down as Magna’s chairman in 2011.
The trial, which commenced in February, saw the prosecution drop one charge and agree on not-guilty verdicts for four others. Stronach was ultimately convicted on two charges, with the incidents occurring from the late 1970s to the 1990s. His sentencing is set for September.
In addition to this case, Stronach is scheduled to face another trial on similar allegations in Newmarket, Ontario, in May.
For more details on the case, visit the Associated Press.
