Five former Canadian world junior hockey players are currently involved in a legal dispute due to sexual assault charges that were brought to light during a court appearance via video link in London, Ontario, on Monday.
The individuals in question are Michael McLeod and Cal Foote of the New Jersey Devils, Dillon Dubé of the Calgary Flames, Carter Hart of the Philadelphia Flyers, and former NHLer Alex Formenton. However, none of them made an appearance during the video link. Their legal representatives were advised of a publication ban aimed at protecting the identity of the woman who filed the complaint, as well as two witnesses involved in the case.
The alleged incident is said to have taken place after a Hockey Canada gala in London in June 2018, during which the players were being honoured for their victory at the world junior hockey championships. Nevertheless, the legal proceedings for the former players are just commencing.
Andrew Furgiuele, a defence lawyer based in Toronto, has clarified that all five players are expected to be tried together, as the separation of their cases would be highly unusual due to the complexities of multiple trials. The defence team will argue that the trial should take place within 30 months, as per Supreme Court decisions, and any delays beyond that timeline will result in requests for stays.
NHL commissioner Gary Bettman has addressed the allegations, stating that the league will not suspend the players as their contracts will expire long before the trial commences. This effectively removes any potential challenge from the players’ union. Eric Macramalla, an Ottawa-based lawyer and legal analyst, has also agreed that it is in the best interest of the NHL teams to wait until the expiration of the contracts.
Under Canadian law, sexual assault can carry a maximum 10-year jail sentence, but first-time offenders often receive much more lenient punishment. Carolyn Conron, a criminal lawyer based in London, emphasized that the final sentencing will depend on the evidence presented at the trial.
Looking ahead, the London police have scheduled a news conference to provide an update on the case. The decision to reopen the case in 2022, after it was initially closed in 2018, has raised questions about what has changed and why. It’s a significant development that has garnered attention from legal professionals and the public alike.
It is a sensitive and emotional topic, and it is crucial for anyone who has experienced sexual assault to seek support. Crisis lines and local support services can be accessed through the Government of Canada website or the Ending Violence Association of Canada database. In emergency situations, individuals should not hesitate to call 911.
Karen Pauls has contributed to this report.