Lawsuit Accuses Ex-Blackhawks Coach of Sexual Assault, Claims Team Neglected Response

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An ex-member of the Chicago Blackhawks has brought forth accusations in a legal claim, stating that he was sexually assaulted by the then-video coach during the team’s quest for the Stanley Cup in the 2009-10 season. The accuser alleges that the Blackhawks organization did not sufficiently address his report, favoring their championship aspirations over his wellbeing.

According to a report by the Chicago Tribune on Sunday, the legal action was initiated on behalf of the anonymous plaintiff, referred to as “John Doe,” in the Cook County Circuit Court by the law firm Romanucci & Blandin last Thursday. Attempts to contact the law firm’s representative by The Big Big News were unsuccessful.

The Tribune’s coverage included that the complainant belonged to the “Black Aces,” a group of minor-league players who were on hand to supplement the NHL team’s lineup during the postseason in case of injuries.

This lawsuit comes in the wake of a previous case involving Kyle Beach, another “Black Aces” member. Beach agreed to a settlement with the Blackhawks in December 2021, subsequent to his allegations of sexual assault by the same former video coach, Brad Aldrich.

The recent lawsuit echoes the earlier claims against Aldrich, condemning the Blackhawks for their alleged gross negligence and apathy regarding the protection of their employees, including the plaintiff, “John Doe.”

Responding to the Tribune, the Blackhawks refrained from commenting on the lawsuit’s details but affirmed their commitment to addressing workplace misconduct allegations. The team highlighted the independent review conducted two years ago into the incidents of 2010 and emphasized organizational changes made since then. These changes include a revamp of leadership, advancements in compliance and human resources, a comprehensive mental health support program, and improved reporting and training processes for employees.

Attorney Antonio Romanucci, in his discussion with the Tribune, emphasized the lawsuit’s aim to hold the Blackhawks accountable and to serve as a warning to other teams against prioritizing success over the safety and mental well-being of players.

The recent lawsuit contends that Aldrich lured “Black Aces” players to his residence under the pretense of hockey strategy discussions, only to attempt engaging them in viewing pornographic content. It alleges that Aldrich offered sexual acts to “John Doe” and physically accosted him through his clothing. Furthermore, it claims Aldrich leveraged intimidation to prevent the reporting of his alleged misconduct.

In a separate incident, Aldrich faced legal repercussions when, in December 2013, he entered a guilty plea to fourth-degree criminal sexual conduct involving a minor hockey player. While a more severe felony charge was dismissed, Aldrich was sentenced to jail time, from which he was released in 2014.

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More about Blackhawks sexual assault lawsuit

• Chicago Blackhawks Sexual Assault Case Overview
• Details on the Blackhawks’ Organizational Changes
• Kyle Beach’s Settlement and Its Impact
• Legal Outcomes for Brad Aldrich
• NHL’s Response to Workplace Misconduct