Five 2018 Canadian World Juniors Players Told to Surrender

The Globe and Mail (subscription required) reported on Wednesday that five players from Canada’s 2018 World Junior hockey team have been directed by the London Police Services to surrender in connection with allegations of sexual assault. None of the names of the players have been released, nor have these players officially been charged. The calls to surrender are linked to an alleged group sexual assault on a woman in June 2018, following a Hockey Canada gala in London.

When sources, including Daily Faceoff, contacted the London Police Service, it was told they had no further information to provide. They noted, “We are unable to provide an update at this time… When there is further information to share regarding this investigation, we will be in contact with media outlets.”

The charges revolve around an alleged sexual assault involving members of the 2018 team and a woman identified as E.M. In 2019, the London Police initiated an investigation allegations, ultimately closing it without pressing charges. However, the alleged victim pursued legal action, leading to a discreet multimillion-dollar settlement by Hockey Canada. This turn of events went very public and prompted a complete overhaul of the organization’s Board of Directors and leadership.

Related: 2018 WJC Team Canada Final Roster for Buffalo

In May 2022, court documents showed that Hockey Canada had settled a $3.55 million lawsuit against the association, the CHL, and eight unnamed former CHL players.

This prompted a parliamentary committee to hold hearings, demanding transparency from Hockey Canada, all while sponsors severed ties, leading to a significant shakeup in Hockey Canada’s leadership. Since that time, this story and the impending outcome of a further investigation has lingered and surrounded a handful of players who were once part of that 2018 team.

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