The civil claim alleges when they entered the room, «Virtanen came up behind the plaintiff and began kissing her neck and putting his hands all over her body. The plaintiff allegedly shrugged Virtanen off.» The civil claim alleges Virtanen «became more persistent in his attempt to have sex with the plaintiff.» The woman claims in her court filings that she told Virtanen «no.»
«Given Virtanen's height, body weight and superior strength, the plaintiff was powerless and was unable to force Virtanen off of her,» the documents allege. «Virtanen proceeded to push open the plaintiff's legs and to have sexual intercourse with the plaintiff without the plaintiff's consent.»
Many media outlets, including the Canadian Press, have reviewed the court records and have provided the following information: The woman, identified only by her initials, allegedly suffered physical and emotional damage, including post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, anxiety, and frequent and continuing nightmares, according to the statement of claim.
On May 1, the Canucks put Virtanen on leave, stating that the team "does not support sexual assault of any sort" and that "the charges as stated are being taken very seriously."
