Lawyers for former Afghanistan abductee Joshua Boyle are expected to vigorously challenge the credibility of one of his alleged victims -- his wife, Caitlan Coleman.
A Crown attorney predicted that yesterday at the outset of the long-awaited criminal trial for the man whose family was taken hostage in Afghanistan seven years ago.
Meaghan Cunningham urged Justice Peter Doody to exercise caution in interpreting Coleman's behaviour, choices and reactions.
In particular, Cunningham suggested, it would be a mistake to conclude Coleman willingly submitted to her husband's alleged physical and sexual abuse.
Boyle and Coleman were taken hostage in 2012 by a Taliban-linked group while on a backpacking trip in Afghanistan.
Pakistani forces freed the couple in October 2017 along with their three children, who were born during their captivity.
Two months later, Boyle was arrested by Ottawa police and charged with offences including assault, sexual assault and unlawful confinement.
Boyle has pleaded not guilty to all charges.