Retired NHL center Ryan Kesler has been charged with two counts of criminal sexual conduct in the fourth degree, according to court records.
Sean Gentille and Katie Strang of the Athletic know the story, noting in their report that Kesler, 41, appeared in a courtroom in Bloomfield Hills, Michigan, on Monday for his arraignment and pleaded not guilty.
The charges stem from alleged events on January 1 and were filed on October 23. His next court appearance, a probable cause conference, is scheduled for Nov. 6.
“Ryan emphatically denies the allegations and is completely innocent of the allegations,” Kesler’s attorney said Robert Morad told The Athletic. “The charges are unfounded and he is prepared to fight them vigorously in court. As the legal process begins, we ask for respect for his privacy and for the integrity of the legal system. We are confident that, when all facts and circumstances are presented, he will be fully exonerated.”
Kesler played in the NHL from 2003 to 2019 with the Vancouver Canucks and Anaheim Ducks. He also represented the United States at the 2010 and 2014 Winter Olympics. He finished his NHL career with 1,001 games played and 573 points. He added another 65 points in 101 playoff games. He had a 41-goal season with Vancouver in 2010-11. He added another 19 points in the playoffs that season.
The case is in its early stages and court proceedings are expected to take place in the coming months.
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