Investigation Overview

A serious investigation into an alleged sexual assault tied to four players associated with the Brockville Braves Junior A hockey team has sent shockwaves through the local hockey community. The team's co-owner, Dustin Traylen, is questioning Hockey Canada’s authority to oversee such investigations and is advocating for a resolution that prioritizes the mental well-being of the players involved.

Incident Details

The troubling allegations are linked to an incident reported to have taken place at Queen's University in Kingston, Ontario, during the spring of 2024, shortly after the conclusion of the Braves' 2023-24 season. The Brockville Braves compete in the eight-team Central Canada Hockey League and are located just an hour's drive from Kingston.

Hockey Canada's Oversight

In 2022, Hockey Canada signed an agreement with the Office of the Sport Integrity Commissioner (OSIC), which granted OSIC authority over complaints relating to national teams, as well as establishing an Independent Third Party (ITP) to address maltreatment issues in other hockey leagues. This shift has raised questions about how responsibility is assigned in cases where serious allegations arise outside of official hockey seasons.

Suspensions and Investigations

On December 6, Traylen was formally notified that two of his players were to be suspended, pending the outcome of the ITP’s investigation. Notably, two other players cited in the allegations have opted not to return to Brockville this season—one having retired from hockey and another now playing in the United States.

Concerns Over Jurisdiction

As the investigation unfolds, Traylen has expressed concerns regarding the ITP's jurisdiction over the case. He emphasized that since the alleged assault did not occur during the season, it should have been referred to the police, who he believes are better equipped to handle such allegations. However, despite Traylen's assertions, there is no active police investigation into the incident, as confirmed by Kingston police officials. They stated that without specific details about the incident or involved parties, they cannot ascertain whether a report had been filed.

Players' Welfare