Police chief in London, Ont., says sexual assault investigations of 2 hockey players conducted correctly | CBC News

The police chief in London, Ont. has confidence that two sexual assault investigations involving two hockey players were conducted appropriately.

Steve Williams called for a review of the cases, one involving a player who was on the Western University team when the complainant alleged she was assaulted in March 2018, last week. The second player was on a pro team, according to TSN, which first reported the story.

“The investigations were conducted in accordance with London Police Service (LPS) procedure, ensuring the victim was supported through referral to victim services and that her wishes with respect to charges were followed,” said Williams in a statement on Thursday. 

Court documents show the former Western University player, who currently plays for the Strathroy Jets of the Western Ontario Super Hockey League, was charged with sexual assault. Those charges were withdrawn, but a peace bond was issued in June 2020 requiring him not to communicate with or be near the complainant. 

King’s University College, where the player was a student, would not comment on the incident. However, TSN had obtained documents showing he was suspended for 18 months and removed from the team. 

“With respect to the second investigation, charges were not laid and that investigation has been finalized and closed.  As part of the review, LPS investigators spoke to the complainant and she has been provided with information regarding options, including having the investigation re-opened,” Williams said. 

Advocates who work with victims of sexual assault expressed concern that victims are having to tell their story to the media, an indication a citizens’ group tasked with reviewing cases is not working. They’re calling for increased funding for the group, whose work they say is a full-time job. 

The LPS is currently reviewing a different case involving world junior hockey players who allegedly assaulted a woman in a London hotel room in July 2018. 

That case was initially closed, with no charges being laid, and has since led to a massive review of hockey culture in Canada. 

Williams said the police service continues to work with advocacy groups to ensure best practices in victim support during investigations are upheld.