London Police Chief Thai Truong confirmed on February 5 that five former Canadian World Junior hockey players have been officially charged with sexual assault for events that occurred in 2018, although no further details on the case were provided. The charges involve five individuals: Michael McLeod, 26, from Mississauga, Ontario, who faces two counts of sexual assault, Alexander Formenton, 24, from Barrie, Ontario; Carter Hart, 25, from Cherry Hill, New Jersey; Cal Foote, 25, from Denver, Colorado; and Dillon Dube, 25, from Calgary, Alberta, each of whom faces one count of sexual assault.
During the February 5 press conference, Chief Truong publicly apologized to the alleged victim for the extended duration it took to bring charges against the individuals. He expressed the sentiment that the investigation should not have taken as long as it did, emphasizing the importance of ensuring swift justice for victims of sexual assault.
In court on the morning of February 5, no formal pleas were entered by the accused individuals. Defense attorneys for the athletes stated that their clients intend to actively challenge the charges, with all five asserting their innocence. The defense attorneys informed that they will be contesting the charges.
The investigation revolves around an incident on June 18, 2018, involving members of the Canadian Junior hockey team in London for a Hockey Canada event. The case, initially closed in February 2019 without charges, was reopened in July 2022 following a comprehensive review. Hockey Canada and the NHL have each initiated its independent investigations into the matter, concurrently with the ongoing police investigation.
Four of the individuals facing charges are active NHL players: Mr. Dube plays for the Calgary Flames, Mr. Hart for the Philadelphia Flyers, and both Mr. McLeod and Mr. Foote are on the roster of the New Jersey Devils. Mr. Formenton, formerly with the Ottawa Senators, has since relocated to play for a Swiss team. Each of these athletes has been granted an indefinite leave by their respective professional hockey teams.
Chief Truong and Detective Sergeant Katherine Dann, who is leading the case, did not disclose further details about the investigation during the press conference, citing the ongoing nature of the investigation and their desire not to compromise it. They thanked the alleged victim for her courage and patience while emphasizing the necessity of ensuring transparency and accountability and protecting the integrity of the ongoing legal process.