Two teenage hockey players in Nova Scotia are facing serious criminal charges following allegations of sexual assault connected to a hazing incident that occurred last fall, court documents reveal.
The 15-year-old boys appeared before provincial youth court in Truro, N.S., this week for arraignment on multiple charges, including two counts of sexual assault and one count of sexual assault with a weapon—reportedly a mini hockey stick. One of the accused also faced an additional assault charge involving urine, though that charge has since been modified to a simple assault charge without a weapon designation.
The alleged incidents targeted three victims during what authorities describe as hazing-related attacks occurring on October 3 in Colchester County, north of the Halifax region. Court documents indicate one attack may have extended between October 1 and December 30.
What Happens Next
The case has been adjourned until May 25, when both accused are expected to enter pleas. Both teens, who were 14 at the time of the alleged offences, will be tried jointly if the matter proceeds to trial. Under the Youth Criminal Justice Act, their identities and those of the alleged victims remain protected from publication.
The court has issued strict conditions: both accused are prohibited from contacting three specific individuals and barred from entering public dressing rooms unless accompanied by an adult.
Investigation Timeline
Hockey Nova Scotia first learned of the allegations on January 30, 2025, when a youth reported being assaulted during a private team gathering in October. The organization immediately notified the RCMP and suspended the youth team in the Truro area.
Following the initial report, police collected statements from multiple witnesses, which uncovered additional offences allegedly occurring at different locations. Four youths were arrested in early February, but charges were formally laid against only two of them before the end of that month.
The case underscores ongoing concerns about hazing culture within youth sports programs and the serious consequences when such behaviour crosses into criminal territory.
This article is based on reporting from the Globe and Mail. Read the original story at theglobeandmail.com.