What did Michael McLeod and Cal Foote do?

Michael McLeod and Cal Foote, two players from the New Jersey Devils who were part of the 2018 Hockey Canada championship team, are currently at the center of a sexual assault investigation.

In response to the ongoing situation, both players have requested and been granted indefinite leaves of absence from the team.

On January 24, 2024, the New Jersey Devils officially announced that Michael McLeod and defenseman Cal Foote had been given permission to take indefinite leaves of absence from the team.

The Devils’ statement on the matter was succinct, stating, “Michael McLeod and Cal Foote have each requested and been granted indefinite leave of absences from the team. The club will have no further comment at this time.”

The decision to grant leaves of absence to McLeod and Foote comes amid speculation surrounding a 2018 sexual assault investigation involving members of the Canadian national junior team.

While the Devils’ statement did not delve into the specifics of the situation, it has been reported by The Globe and Mail that five members of the 2018 Canadian junior hockey team are expected to face sexual assault charges in London, Ontario, Canada.

Although the report did not disclose the names of the players involved, Michael McLeod and Cal Foote did play on the team during that period.

As the legal proceedings unfold, the hockey community and the public await further developments in this sensitive and complex situation. The Devils’ decision to grant leaves of absence reflects the seriousness of the allegations and underscores the need for a thorough investigation into the matter.