Former NHLer Ryan Kessler charged with criminal sexual conduct, pleads not guilty

Former NHL player Ryan Kessler has been charged with two misdemeanor counts of fourth-degree criminal sexual conduct, according to Michigan court records.

According to records, charges were filed on October 23 over incidents that occurred on January 1. The 41-year-old was arraigned Monday in Bloomfield Hills, Mich., and pleaded not guilty to the charges.

A probable cause conference is scheduled for Nov. 4, followed by a preliminary examination on Nov. 13.

News of the allegations was first reported Monday by Katie Strange and Sean Gentile Athletic.

“Ryan vehemently denies the allegations and is completely innocent,” Kessler’s attorney, Robert Morad, said. Athletic. “The allegations are baseless and he is prepared to fight them vigorously in court. As the legal process begins, we ask for respect for his privacy and the integrity of the judicial system. We are confident that, when all the facts and circumstances are presented, he will be fully exonerated.”

Sportsnet has also reached out to Murad for comment.

Kesler, Livonia, Mich. From, spent 15 seasons in the NHL – 10 with the Vancouver Canucks and five with the Anaheim Ducks – with his last season in 2018-19. He also represented the United States in the 2010 and 2014 Olympics.