Court hears legal arguments in sexual assault case against five hockey players

ONDON, Ontario (AP) — Lawyers in the sexual assault case of five members of Canada’s 2018 junior hockey team began legal arguments Monday that are expected to last several weeks ahead of next year’s trial.

Dillon Dube, Carter Hart, Michael McLeod, Cal Foote and Alex Formenton were accused of sexual abuse earlier this year in an incident that allegedly occurred in London, Ontario, in June 2018.

McLeod faces one count of conspiracy to commit the crime of sexual assault

Dube, McLeod and Formenton attended the court in London for the first time in person on Monday, all three dressed in dark suits.

Attorneys for the players have said their clients plan to defend themselves against the charges, and all five are expected to plead not guilty.

A jury trial The hearing will begin on April 22 and will be heard by Judge Maria Carroccia.

Several weeks have already been set aside for legal arguments, but the issues discussed during those hearings cannot be reported at this time due to a publication ban intended to protect the suspects’ right to a fair trial.

The charges stem from an incident that allegedly occurred when the players and many of their teammates were in London for a Hockey Canada gala celebrating their gold medal win at that year’s world junior tournament.

Police launched a criminal investigation that closed without charges in 2019 and beyond Reopened 2022.

Researchers said this in February they were able to file charges after gathering new evidence, but declined to provide additional details, citing the lawsuit.

The case has led to increased scrutiny of sports organizations and the way they handle allegations of sexual misconduct.

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