Ex-Kitchener neurologist testifies in sexual assault trial about treating headaches in patients

Former Kitchener neurologist Jeffrey Sloka testified for a second week on Wednesday, answering questions by defence lawyer David Humphrey about former patients who were presumed to have been suffering with migraines and headaches.

Sloka walked through each of these cases in detail, addressing — and countering — testimony heard earlier in the trial by Dr. Vera Bril, a neurological expert, about his methods in some instances and allegations made by patients. 

Sloka is facing 50 counts of sexual assault in connection to incidents dating back to 2010. The alleged victims, who were patients seeking treatment, ranged in age from their teens to their 50s.

Sloka has pleaded not guilty to all counts.

Sloka had no memory of one of the patients discussed Wednesday, which he disclosed to the court, and had to refer to medical records to answer questions by defence about such things as the sequence of consultation, the patient's history, and justification for a cardiac exam. 

Sloka denied accusations made by the former patient, including that he'd asked them to remove all clothes  — underwear included — under the gown for the physical exam, and that he'd cupped her breasts.   

It's alleged Sloka asked patients to undress so he could perform a physical or skin examination during neurological exams in his practice. It's also alleged he touched his patients' breasts. In some instances, it is alleged he inserted his fingers into the patients. 

Sloka had a primary practice at Grand River Hospital but also had privileges at Guelph General Hospital and St. Mary's General Hospital in Kitchener.

Sloka was put under restrictions in September 2017 due to the accusations. He was then stripped of his licence in May 2019 and arrested four months later in September.     

Police announced multiple sets of charges against Sloka and by June 17, he faced 76 allegations in connection with separate sexual assaults against women in Waterloo region. However, 26 were withdrawn at the request of the Crown. 

The trial continues Thursday. Following the review of patients who suffered migraines and headaches, which is anticipated to take several more days, it's expected Sloka will be asked questions by his lawyer about patients who were prescribed birth control and suffered seizures.

Read more about this trial and events leading up to it through CBC's coverage here: