Remaining assault, sexual assault charges stayed in case against former Yellowknife councillor

Eight charges against a former Yellowknife city councillor were stayed Monday, after a jury failed to reach a verdict on them in January. 

Robin Williams faced 14 charges of assault and sexual assault earlier this year. After a two-week trial, a jury found Williams not guilty on six charges and could not reach a consensus on the remaining eight.

The Crown prosecutor appeared in court Monday to stay the remaining charges. A stay of charges means the charges could be revived, though that rarely happens.

Williams, reached by phone, said the case has been devastating. 

"Absolutely devastating for my life," he said. 

"False accusations against men are so prevalent in our society and media is very quick to take a side."

The Canadian government estimates between two and four per cent of sexual assault allegations are false.

In his closing arguments during trial, Williams' defence lawyer Evan McIntyre argued that Williams' accuser lied under oath multiple times. He also talked about the impact the allegations have had on his client. 

Crown prosecutor Brian Bencze, meanwhile, said the accuser's testimony was credible. He said the Crown respects the decision.