This week Hockey Canada executives have been called to testify in front of the Government of Canada into allegations of covering up sexual assault crimes. Hockey Canada is partially funded by the Canadian Government, so when it was revealed that Hockey Canada had covered up multiple sexual assaults over the years the government wanted answers. It started with the accusations against players from the 2018 World Junior team and has snowballed from there. It was also revealed that a «slush fund» had been set up to help cover up and settle sexual assault allegations outside of court. Now, one of the names of the sexual abusers who Hockey Canada helped hide their disgusting actions from the public has come to light.
Back in September of 2013, Ottawa police charged minor hockey coach Kelly Jones for sexually assaulting a boy that played on Jones' team. Then in October 2013, more victims started to come to light and Kelly Jones was charged with 30 additional charges including sexual assault, sexual interference, invitation to sexual touching and sexual exploitation and intimidation. In total there were 11 victims ranging from ages 7 to 15. After pleading guilty he was sentenced to 8 years in prison. Kelly Jones was the perpetrator that Hockey Canada had to pay out over $1million from their «slush fund» to settle 4 claims of abuse.
The fact that Hockey Canada had to pay out this amount of money for what a minor hockey coach did is disturbing. There needs to be more checks and balances in minor hockey so this doesn't happen to another child. We all know this is just the tip of the iceberg and there is a lot more that will come out. This is just another step in holding people accountable who have endangered children's lives over success and profits.
