Former Blackhawks player claims he was sexually assaulted by coach

According to WBEZ radio, the complainant, referred to in court papers as "John Doe," said that in May 2010, former Blackhawks video coach Brad Aldrich was watching pornography and masturbating in front of him without his permission. On May 7, a complaint was filed in Cook County Court in Chicago.

The former Blackhawks player alleged that Aldrich, who no longer works for the National Hockey League franchise, also sent him inappropriate texts and threatened him physically, financially and emotionally if he did not indulge. to sexual activity.

According to WBEZ, Aldrich is now 38 years old and was convicted in 2013 of another felony, unrelated to the complainant's fourth-degree criminal sex crime involving a Michigan student. He is a registered sex offender in this state.

The lawsuit claims the former Blackhawks player reported Aldrich's alleged foul to James F. Gary, the team's mental skills coach.

«Around May 2010, the complainant, John Doe, started seeing Gary for counseling after being sexually assaulted by a staff member. Prior to the sexual assault on John Doe, the accused was told that the same team employee sexually assaulted a teammate of John Doe. "

Aldrich then allegedly convinced the former player that the sexual assault was his fault, that he was guilty of what had happened.

Susan Loggans, an attorney for the plaintiff, told WBEZ her client reported the alleged incident to the NHL Players Association, but nothing happened. Loggans said his client is seeking damages from the team in excess of $ 150,000.

Blackhawks and NHLPA spokespersons did not respond to requests for comment. Blackhawks vice president of communications Adam Rogowin told WBEZ the lawsuit would be unfounded.

«The Chicago Blackhawks take the allegations of a former player very seriously. Based on our investigation, we believe the allegations against the organization are unfounded and we are confident that the team will be absolved of any wrongdoing. As this is an ongoing litigation, it would be inappropriate for us to comment further. - Adam Rogowin