A cautionary note precedes the account of alleged sexual abuse as a man recounted his ordeal with Tony Humby, whom he met in his teens through a mutual friend. Humby, known for driving them around and providing cigarettes and alcohol, allegedly raped the man between five and 10 times starting when he was 17 in Humby’s trailer near St. John’s airport.
The man, now in his 30s, appeared hesitant during his testimony in provincial court on Monday and Tuesday, speaking slowly with crossed arms and providing brief responses. Video-conferencing from a provincial jail, he requested the camera angle be adjusted to avoid facing Humby during the proceedings.
Tensions escalated during cross-examination when the man used strong language and declined to answer certain questions posed by defence lawyer Mark Gruchy, expressing reluctance about testifying and being compelled to do so. The exchanges became confrontational, with Gruchy questioning the complainant’s memory and credibility, citing inconsistencies in his statements about interactions with Humby.
The man attributed his memory lapses to suffering concussions and long-term drug abuse, explaining that he often blocks out traumatic experiences. He mentioned having removed Humby entirely from his mind until his conversation with the Royal Newfoundland Constabulary in 2023.
The man, the sixth of 11 complainants in the case against Humby, testified in a trial that commenced in August and was initially set to run until next spring but has now been extended with additional court dates until the end of November. Crown prosecutor Deidre Badcock anticipates concluding the case before then.
In cases of immediate danger or safety concerns, individuals are urged to contact 911 for assistance. Support services and crisis lines can be found in local areas through the resources provided by the Ending Sexual Violence Association of Canada database.