Multiple media reports confirm that Austin Watson of the Nashville Predators pleaded no contest to a domestic assault charge involving his girlfriend.
The charge is an apparent misdemeanor for what it’s worth.
Watson’s attorney stated Tuesday that the forward may have the charge expunged from his record if he fulfills judicial obligations regarding diversion programs and behavioral health counseling.
The National Hockey League released a terse statement regarding the issue and the league made it clear through the narrative that it was acting quickly to the reports and plea deal.
In effect, the NHL will open an investigation of its own and determine how to and what to impose in terms of discipline.
Former Los Angeles Kings Slava Voynov was banned from the banned from the league and remains on the outside looking in for a case of domestic violence.
Watson was arrested in June for an incident at a local gas station. The details will not be offered here.
In the statement from the NHL, a prompt investigation is planned:Â “initiating a full investigation into the matter” to determine the extent to which league discipline may be warranted. The league also said in the statement that the team “understands and agrees fully with the league’s view as to the extremely serious nature of the situation and has pledged its full cooperation in the process.”
The latest reports also suggest the Predators and the NHL Players Association are in lock step with the league.
“Our priority right now is surrounding Austin, (his girlfriend) Jen and their family with the care and resources they need to heal and move forward,” was in a statement from Nashville.
You must be logged in to post a comment.