THUNDER BAY - A Lakehead University professor charged with sexual assault is expected to stand trial later this year.
Han Chen was first charged with two counts of sexual assault in March 2021 following the Thunder Bay Police Service launching an investigation in February of that year.
It is alleged that two incidents took place on Jan. 28 and 29, 2021 and involved a student at the university.
Chen was a professor in the natural resources management program at the time of the incidents. A spokesperson with Lakehead University said the school cannot comment on matters regarding the university community, though Chen is no longer listed under the faculty directory on the university’s website.
A three-day trial is scheduled to take place starting on Nov. 7, 2022. Prior to the trial, a hearing will be held in March 2022 where defense counsel, Kate Brindley, will argue an application to produce records relating to the complainant that may contain personal or private information.
Such records are prohibited as disclosure based on an expectation of privacy, but an application can be heard before a judge if counsel believes they are relevant to an issue at trial.
Chen was released on bail on March 30, 2021. None of the allegations have been proven in court.
