Six months. That’s how long Evander Kane will need to stay out of trouble in order for the harassment and trespassing cases against him to be dismissed.
The alleged incidents at a bar on West Chippewa Street back on June 24, 2016 led to four cases against the Sabres winger, including one misdemeanor trespass charge and separate noncriminal violations of disorderly conduct and harassment charges. Kane’s attorney, Paul Cambria, has denied the complainants’ versions of the events and said his client is ready to put the matter behind him and that his focus is on getting back on the ice and being a hockey star.
While making it clear he still considers Kane to be innocent, Cambria added, “We think it’s an appropriate disposition.”
Erie County District Attorney Michael Flaherty said cameras inside the bar captured “images of (Kane) in contact with other patrons, grabbing a girl by her hair, grabbing another girl by her wrist and then scuffling with some bouncers as they try to escort him.”
“His conduct could be described as arrogant, surly and boorish. But at the end of the day what he did did not rise to the level of a criminal offense.” – Prosecuting Attorney Michael Flaherty
Buffalo City Court Judge Barbara Johnson-Lee approved the plea agreement and ordered an adjournment in contemplation of dismissal for all four cases. All plaintiffs had agreed with the proposed plea.
Kane’s attorney says he is not anticipating any discipline from the Sabres or the NHL. He also said that the civil suit against Kane, and Kane’s counter-suit, will continue to move through courts.
Kane appeared in court wearing a suit but no tie and no socks and did not comment beyond his responses to the judge.
The 25-year-old sustained four cracked ribs during Buffalo’s season opening 4-1 loss to the Montreal Canadiens on October 13. Now, more than two weeks later, he’s nearly ready to resume workouts.