Blackhawks hire outside firm to investigate allegations – WDVM25 and DCW50

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by: JAY COHEN, Associated Press

Posted: June 28, 2021 / 1:12 PM EDT / Updated: June 28, 2021 / 1:12 PM EDT

CHICAGO (AP) The Chicago Blackhawks have hired a former federal prosecutor to conduct an independent review of allegations that a former player was sexually assaulted by a then assistant coach in 2010.

CEO Danny Wirtz announced the move in an internal memo Monday morning. This was also confirmed by someone familiar with the ruling who spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity due to the sensitivity of the situation.

A team of experienced professionals, led by former federal prosecutor Reid Schar of law firm Jenner & Block LLP, have been retained and are currently conducting an independent review of these allegations, Wirtz said in the note obtained by the AP . Mr. Schar and his cabinet have extensive experience conducting independent investigative reviews, have no previous connection to the Blackhawk organization, and have been tasked with following the facts wherever they lead.

The Athletic first reported on Wirtz’s score.

The investigation into one of the NHL’s most high-profile franchises comes after two lawsuits have been filed against the team. The first alleges sexual assault by former assistant coach Bradley Aldrich during the teams’ race to the 2010 Stanley Cup title, and the second was filed by a former student that Aldrich was convicted of assault in Michigan.

A former player says Aldrich assaulted him and the team did nothing after letting a now retired employee know. The lawsuit, filed May 7 in Cook County Circuit Court, alleges that Aldrich also assaulted another unidentified Blackhawks player. The former player who sued and claims over $ 150,000 in damages is mentioned in the document as John Doe.

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Jay Cohen can be contacted at https://twitter.com/jcohenap

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