Let’s start with the latest-known facts regarding the investigation of Chicago Blackhawks’ superstar Patrick Kane and accusations of sexual assault.
As of this writing, Kane has not been charged with a crime. The grand jury called by the Erie County, N.Y., district attorney to hear the case and decide whether there’s enough evidence to bring criminal charges against Kane abruptly ended its proceedings on Tuesday.
Depending on the actions of the grand jury and law enforcement officials, the potential media shock wave and chain reaction involving Kane’s particular job, employer and iconic sports star status is all secondary. If he is charged with the sexually violent crime of assaulting his female accuser, then his only roster position that should matter to anyone is “defendant.”
Yes, even if he is charged, which may not happen, Kane is presumed innocent until he gets his day in court. But talk over whether he will begin preseason camp with the Blackhawks on Sept. 18 is meaningless and downright insulting given the serious nature of the case. There’s a level of dignity that needs to be maintained for the alleged victim, family members as well as grand jurors at the center of this search for the truth. It should not be brought down to a far-less meaningful topic about whether Kane will be at camp on time or if he will play.
The recent actions and miscues of pro-sports organizations faced with employees accused of or even recorded while committing violent crimes, from the Baltimore Ravens and Ray Rice to the Minnesota Vikings and Adrian Peterson to the New England Patriots and Aaron Hernandez, provide some disturbing guidance for Kane’s current employer.
The Blackhawks know they have to get this right.
This is an organization which rose from being named “the worst franchise in sports” by ESPN The Magazine in 2004 to winning three Stanley Cups over the next 11 years. In the process, the Blackhawks earned monumental respect as a premier franchise. If the team isn’t careful, this could be a dramatic fall from the top of the mountain. At stake is the Blackhawks’ sterling, championship brand, and the loyalty of millions of fans, many of whom have Kane’s number-88 sweaters hanging in their closets.
Until someone with authority says otherwise, Kane is innocent and there really is no story here.
However, given the serious nature of what the grand jury is investigating, combined with Kane’s reputation for attracting attention off the ice, it would be highly insensitive for his employer to play the “we’re monitoring details” card, and have him be connected with the team in any way until there’s a decision.
It’s Kane’s choice to live his life how he wants, under the law like everyone else. And even if Kane is completely cleared of any wrongdoing, how many more “situations” will it take before Hawks fans shopping for their children think twice about picking out anything featuring number 88?
Eric Scott is a freelance columnist for Pioneer Press.