Ruben Manz trial: Regina chiropractor takes the stage as first defense witness

A Regina chiropractor accused of sexually assaulting seven different women took the stand Thursday as arguments began in his defense.

Manz faces a total of seven sexual assault charges. He was first arrested in April 2021, after two former clients were arrested during their chiropractic treatments, alleging they were subjected to “inappropriate and unwanted actions” while Manz performed a specific maneuver called proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF) stretching.

The defense claims he performed legitimate chiropractic procedures, obtained informed consent to do so, and did not touch any of the seven women of a sexual nature.

“(The Crown) told you they (PNF) were going to prove that a neck lift is not a legitimate chiropractic treatment,” defense lawyer Blaine Beaven told the jury in his opening statement. “This is a valid chiropractic treatment.”

Manz says he books 5,000 to 7,000 appointments each year and performs PNF stretching in up to 30 percent of appointments.

He was asked extensive questions about the procedures he performed on patients and how he kept them informed about what would happen during the nearly two-hour exam Thursday.

“Our (office’s) policy has always been, ‘If (a) patient is more comfortable with another practitioner, that’s the place to be,’” Manz told the court. “Because we’ve always been patient-centered that way.” “we became.”

The defendant testified that all patients filled out forms explaining their previous health history and why they needed to see a chiropractor.

The survey also included an informed consent form.

“It was completed before I treated anyone,” Manz said.

Manz added that most of his treatments are best done with skin-to-skin contact so his hands don’t slip during maneuvers. However, he never asks the patient to take off his underwear and constantly asks for approval during the procedure.

“What do you do if the patient withdraws consent?” defense lawyer Kath Hodgson-Smith asked.

“I’m stopping,” Manz replied. “I ask them what their concerns are and I reassure them about what’s going on, why I’m doing what I’m doing, and give them alternatives.”

The chiropractor also said there are mechanisms in place so he doesn’t have to use his hands when treatment is needed in sensitive areas.

Hodgson-Smith went on to ask whether the withdrawal of consent was verbal.

“No,” Manz replied. “Most people say, ‘Stop,’ but you can tell by body language. “For example, if someone starts waving their hands, crying, or shaking, you know they’re not comfortable.”

All seven alleged victims took the stand during hearings over the last two weeks. Many were cross-examined about their memory of specific details.

Beaven expressed similar challenges when speaking to the jury Thursday.

“Just because someone actually believes what they say is true doesn’t mean it is true,” he said. “You (the jury) decide what the truth is. You decide to accept it.”

“You can listen to someone and say, ‘I think they’re trying to tell me the truth,’ but if they don’t remember, it’s not accurate, or it doesn’t make sense, you can rightfully question the credibility.”

Manz’s testimony and the Crown’s cross-examination will continue on Friday.

He is tried by 13 jury members. Twelve will make a final decision at a later date.