Windsor Spitfires, CHL, OHL call lawsuit alleging sexual assault by 4 players ‘very serious’
The Windsor Spitfires, Ontario Hockey League (OHL) and Canadian Hockey League (CHL) are facing serious allegations of sexual assault from more than 40 years ago. The lawsuit, filed by a plaintiff known as Jane Doe, is seeking $3.75 million in damages.
According to the court filing, the alleged sexual assault took place at an end-of-season team party in the spring of 1984 at a Tecumseh billet house. The plaintiff claims that she drove to the house and did not willingly consume alcohol or drugs, but woke up naked and unable to move while being sexually assaulted by four men. A fifth man was also present in the room, crying in the corner.
The plaintiff, now 59 years old, contacted her lawyer, Rob Talach, after the 2018 Hockey Canada world junior sexual assault scandal in London. Talach emphasized that many victims of sexual abuse take years, if not decades, to come forward, and some never speak out at all. He stated that the lawsuit is a typical sexual abuse case for him, despite the lack of documentation.
The lawsuit accuses the leagues of fostering a toxic environment and failing to protect the plaintiff, alleging that they ignored past reports of sexual misconduct. While some may wonder why the case is being pursued civilly instead of criminally, Toronto lawyer Gillian Hnatiw explained that the civil route allows for a more level playing field, a different standard of proof, and eliminates the right to remain silent for the accused.
For anyone who has been sexually assaulted, support is available through crisis lines and local support services. If you are in immediate danger or fear for your safety, please call 911. The Spitfires, OHL, and CHL have encouraged the victim to reach out to the police, showing their support for seeking justice and holding perpetrators accountable.
