Breaking News - Tampa Bay Lightning issue statement about Ian Cole allegations, issue early punishment

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Josh tupper
October 9, 2022 (8:20 PM)

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Today news broke that Ian Cole was at the center of a sexual assault allegations. A Twitter user claimed that the NHLer had groomed her and sexually assaulted her as a minor. According to the allegations she was not the only victim of Cole's.

Today the NHL made an announcement that they would be conducting an investigation into these claims and that they would have no additional statement at this time.

NHL is aware of the allegations of grooming and sexual assault involving Ian Cole. According to deputy commissioner Bill Daly, the league is looking into them.

While the league was non-committal on any punishment the Tampa Bay Lightning have chosen to go their own route. The Lightning issued the following statement, suspending Ian Cole from the team during the investigation.

TAMPA BAY- The Tampa Bay Lightning today issued the following statement regarding defenseman lan Cole.

"The Tampa Bay Lightning is aware of the allegations against player lan Cole and are cooperating fully with the NHL on an investigation. Our organization takes these allegations very seriously. While we continue to gather more details, we have decided to suspend lan Cole pending the results of an investigation. No members of the organization, including players, will comment further at this time."

The steps being taken by the Lightning are a step in the right direction, but at this time there are no proof that Cole is guilty. A thorough investigation is underway.