A pair of hazing incidents, involving a high school hockey team this past winter, will result in criminal charges, according to Manitoba RCMP.

First reported to authorities on February 20, RCMP say two incidents took place, one in November and the second in January, at a Winnipeg hotel while the team was in the city to play in tournaments. They involved five male victims, aged 15 and 16, who were rookies on the team.  

On Monday, three 17-year-old males were arrested in relation to the incidents. Two of the males were arrested for Sexual Assault with a Weapon, Sexual Assault, and Forcible Confinement. The third was arrested for Sexual Assault and Assault.

“We have worked closely with the schools, the Prairie Spirit School Division, and coaches to determine what took place and to progress the investigation,” said Tara Seel, Media Relations Officer with the Manitoba RCMP. “This type of behaviour – violent and humiliating initiations – is unacceptable and is going to result in criminal charges for the three male youth involved.”

The three suspects were released with a court appearance scheduled in Winnipeg for June 10, 2024.