Canadian Police Apologize in Hockey Gang Rape Case

London, Canada (AFP) - Canadian police have officially charged five current and former NHL players in connection with an alleged gang rape that occurred in 2018. The charges come after a six-year investigation, for which the police have issued an apology.

The accused players, who were part of Canada's junior national ice hockey team at the time, are facing one count of sexual assault each. They have been identified as Michael McLeod and Cal Foote from the New Jersey Devils, Dillon Dube from the Calgary Flames, Carter Hart from the Philadelphia Flyers, and Alex Formenton, who previously played for the Ottawa Senators and currently plays in Switzerland.

In addition to the sexual assault charges, McLeod is also facing charges for being an accomplice to the offense, meaning he is accused of aiding or encouraging others to commit the crime.

During a news conference, Thai Truong, the police chief of London, Ontario, extended a genuine apology on behalf of the London Police Service to the victim and her family for the extensive time it took to reach this point. Truong acknowledged the difficulties faced by victims and survivors of sexual violence and expressed empathy as someone who has worked in this field for many years.

The incident in question took place in June 2018 at a hotel in London, Ontario, following a Hockey Canada gala. The initial police investigation concluded without charges in 2019. However, a second review of the case, prompted by a Hockey Canada scandal and public outcry, unveiled new evidence and additional witnesses, leading to the current charges, as explained by lead investigator Katherine Dann.

All five suspects voluntarily surrendered to the police last week and have been released pending trial.

During a recent court appearance via video link, the players' lawyers were informed to expect a substantial amount of evidence to be disclosed in the upcoming weeks.

None of the accused players were present at the hearing, but their legal representatives have stated that the players deny any wrongdoing and intend to contest the allegations.

The next court hearing is scheduled for April 30.

In May 2022, Hockey Canada faced severe backlash when it was revealed that the federation had attempted to cover up the gang rape allegations made by the young woman in 2018. The federation secretly provided her with several million dollars from a undisclosed fund, partially supported by fees paid by young Canadian hockey players.

The consequences of the scandal were swift and substantial, resulting in the loss of sponsors and a 10-month suspension of federal funding for the federation. In addition, Hockey Canada's CEO, Scott Smith, was ousted from his position.