Former NHL Star Ryan Kesler Faces Misdemeanor Sexual Conduct Charges in Michigan

Ryan Kesler, a two-time NHL All-Star and former player for the Vancouver Canucks and Anaheim Ducks, has been charged with two misdemeanor counts of fourth-degree criminal sexual conduct related to an incident on January 1 in Michigan. He pleaded not guilty during his arraignment in Bloomfield Hills and posted bond, with a probable cause hearing scheduled for early November. Kesler's attorney has declared the charges baseless and stated that Kesler vehemently denies the allegations, intending to fight them vigorously in court. Kesler, who retired following the 2018-2019 NHL season after playing 15 years and scoring 258 goals, has also represented the U.S. in the 2010 and 2014 Winter Olympics and won the Selke Trophy in 2011. Since retirement, he has kept a low profile, coaching a youth hockey team and remaining active in the community. The case is ongoing, with further court proceedings expected in November.