On April 15, 2024, three 17-year-old males were arrested in relation to alleged hazing incidents on a hockey team that was reported to police on February 20, 2024. Two of the males were arrested for Sexual Assault with a Weapon, Sexual Assault, and Forcible Confinement. One of the males was arrested for Sexual Assault and Assault.
There were two separate alleged incidents of hazing involving five victims who were rookies on the team. The victims are aged 15 and 16.
Police say the first incident occurred in November 2023 and the second occurred in January 2024. Both incidents reportedly occurred at a Winnipeg hotel while the high school hockey team from the Pembina Valley area was in the city to play in tournaments. RCMP say all of those involved in the incidents are male and players on the team.
“We have worked closely with the schools, the Prairie Spirit School Division, and coaches to determine what took place and to progress the investigation,” said Tara Seel, Media Relations Officer with the Manitoba RCMP. “This type of behaviour – violent and humiliating initiations – is unacceptable and is going to result in criminal charges for the three male youth involved.”
The three suspects were released with a court appearance scheduled in Winnipeg or June 10, 2024.
