London police have announced they are reopening a criminal investigation into an alleged sexual assault at a downtown hotel that has since become a national scandal.
On Wednesday, London Police Service (LPS) Chief Steve Williams issued a statement that investigators were beginning an internal review of a sexual assault investigation that reportedly happened at a hotel on Dundas Street in June 2018.
Over four years later, and three since the initial investigation concluded, it was revealed that the alleged assault involved a young woman and eight members of the 2017-18 National Junior Team at a Hockey Canada gala.
On Friday, Williams confirmed a preliminary review is complete, and police have decided to conduct a criminal investigation.
"Through this review, [investigators] have determined there are further investigative opportunities available to us, and as such, the criminal investigation has been reopened to allow those opportunities to be explored," a statement from Williams read.
Williams added that no additional information can be shared at this time. However, updates will be provided once the probe has concluded. He said police are looking forward to hearing from the London Abused Women's Centre.
"At the conclusion of this investigation, we would welcome a review by the London Violence Against Women Community Advocacy Group," said Williams.
Also on Friday, Hockey Canada confirmed it had learned of second alleged group sexual assault, dating back nearly 20 years ago. The organization said it was contacted by Rick Westhead of TSN/CTV National News who claims he was provided with disturbing details from several witnesses of the alleged incident.
