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Blackhawks' bid to dismiss negligence claim rejected by federal judge

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Janessa Ladouceur
March 26, 2024 (11:57)

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A US federal judge has rejected the Blackhawks' motion to dismiss a lawsuit brought by a former player alleging he was assaulted by former video coach 15 years ago.

The lawsuit was filed on Nov. 2, 2023. The plaintiff was identified as "John Doe" in the documents. This legal action occurred nearly two years after the Chicago Blackhawks settled with Kyle Beach, who had sued for being assaulted by the same former video coach, Brad Aldrich. The Blackhawks sought to dismiss the lawsuit citing the time elapsed since the incident, but the player's attorney argued that new information warranted an extension of the time limit. The judge sided with the player's lawyer.

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Rick Westhead from TSN makes a statement

"The Blackhawks wrote in their filing that the player filed his lawsuit 13 years after he was allegedly assaulted by Aldrich. In Illinois, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is two years. The player's lawyers argued that the limitations period was moot because the player didn't learn until more recently about the behind-the-scenes actions of Blackhawks officials in 2010."

The player's law firm mentioned that the lawsuit probably wouldn't go to trial until 2026, if it even reached that point. They also mentioned that in the meantime, their plan is to subpoena Kyle Beach.

"I'm sure that it would be difficult for Kyle, but I'm also sure he would be able to testify about how this was a problem that extended beyond his own situation."

Jason Friedl says. Rick Westhead, TSN

A second player comes forward

The second player to file a lawsuit is someone who served as a "Black Ace" for the Chicago Blackhawks during the 2009-10 season. A "Black Ace" is an additional player on the roster from the AHL or other leagues whose season has concluded and is available to join the lineup in case of injuries, suspensions, etc.

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Blackhawks' bid to dismiss negligence claim rejected by federal judge

A US federal judge has rejected the Blackhawks' motion to dismiss a lawsuit brought by a former player alleging he was assaulted by former video coach 15 years ago.

Will more 2009-10 players speak out?