Hockey Players' Sexual Assault Pre-Trial Hearings Underway

In London, Ontario, two days of pre-trial motion hearings are taking place for five hockey players accused of sexual assault, including Alex Foron, Cal Foot, Carter Hart, Dylan Dubé, and Michael McLoud. They each face one count of sexual assault, with McLoud facing an additional charge. Notably, four of the players previously played in the NHL while one was with a Swiss team; all have since taken leave from their teams as their contracts expired. Reports suggest that two accused, including McLoud, are set to play in a Russian league. The motion hearings will address legal issues concerning evidence and trial logistics, conducted without the accused present, as their lawyers argue on their behalf. This case stems from incidents alleged to have occurred during a gala event in 2018 following Canada’s World Junior Hockey team's gold medal win. Initially, the allegations led to a closed investigation in 2019 for lack of evidence but were reopened in 2022 following new information. The accused voluntarily surrendered to police upon reassessment of the charges. They are currently free and have asserted their innocence through their legal counsel. The primary trial is anticipated to commence in September 2025, following more hearings scheduled for later this fall.