Jan 22, 2024; Newark, New Jersey, USA; New Jersey Devils center Michael McLeod (20) faces off against Vegas Golden Knights center Chandler Stephenson (20) during the first period at Prudential Center. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-USA TODAY Sports
NHL: Vegas Golden Knights at New Jersey Devils
(Newark, NJ) – As part of an investigation into a sexual assault in Canada, two members of the New Jersey Devils have been granted an “indefinite leave of absence.”
Both Cal Foote and Michael McLeod will spend some time away from the team, after police in London, Ontario ordered five players from the 2018 Canadian World Junior team to surrender – in connection to an alleged sexual assault that occurred over five years ago.
Both McLeod and Foote weren’t present at the Devils’ Sweep the Deck gala, held Tuesday night. The Globe and Mail reports the five players have been given a deadline by which they must report. The Athletic reports London Police said: “We’re 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 NHL said it was declining to provide a statement at this time.
Sportsnet reports the allegations first came to light in May of 2022, after Hockey Canada settled a lawsuit. That legal action was reportedly connected to a sexual encounter inside a hotel room in June of 2018. Devils’ coach coach Lindy Ruff said Wednesday he “(doesn’t) know” if Foote and McLeod’s absences are connected to the Canada case. McLeod has addressed the situation publicly before, saying in September of 2022: “I am aware of the situation in 2018 and the investigation and I’ve been cooperative through the entire investigation and process. But since it’s still ongoing, I’m unable to comment any further.”
Clearly there are more details that will emerge, and that could shed light as to what – if anything – both players are specifically being accused of.
