World junior players acquitted of sexual assault can return to NHL, league rules
Hockey Canada said Wednesday that four of the five players from Canada’s 2018 world junior team who were acquitted last year of sexual assault will remain suspended following an independent appeal process.
The appeal board ruled that all five players breached Hockey Canada’s code of conduct. However, one of those players, Alex Formenton, will be reinstated “immediately” and be allowed to participate in Hockey Canada-sanctioned programs, the organization said in a statement.
It said Cal Foote will remain suspended until Nov. 10 of this year, Carter Hart until that same date in 2027, and Dillon Dube until Nov. 10, 2028.
Michael McLeod will face the longest suspension, lasting until Nov. 10, 2030.
All five players were cleared to play in the NHL last year after their league suspensions were lifted following their acquittal by a London, Ont., jury.
More to come…
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