Former firefighter denies feeling anger toward non-binary rookie before alleged assault
The former Ottawa firefighter accused of assaulting and choking a non-binary crewmate during an altercation over the dinner dishes flatly denies feeling angry or frustrated with the complainant, insisting he never placed his hand on their throat during the incident.
![Former firefighter denies feeling anger toward non-binary rookie before alleged assault](https://i.cbc.ca/1.7198132.1715196867!/fileImage/httpImage/image.jpg_gen/derivatives/16x9_620/eric-einagel-firefighter-choking-trial-ottawa.jpg)
![Former firefighter Eric Einagel, at far right, walks with members of his legal team outside the Ottawa Courthouse on May 8, 2024. Three men in suits and ties, two of whom have umbrellas, walk outside on a cloudy day.](https://i.cbc.ca/1.7198132.1715196867!/fileImage/httpImage/image.jpg_gen/derivatives/16x9_620/eric-einagel-firefighter-choking-trial-ottawa.jpg)
The former Ottawa firefighter accused of assaulting and choking a non-binary crewmate during an altercation over the dinner dishes flatly denies feeling angry or frustrated with the complainant, insisting he never placed his hand on their throat during the incident.