Kyle Beach knows that he still has a long road ahead, but is determined to hold the Chicago Blackhawks accountable despite what he calls their attempts to “destroy (his) case in court.”
Beach released a statement on his Twitter account expressing his gratitude for the support he’s received on Thursday. He says he hopes his situation can promote more open communication and facilitate change going forward. He also says that his battle with the Blackhawks continues, despite the team apologizing and the results of the sexual abuse investigation being made public.
“I have immense gratitude for the outpouring of endless love and support that has come through within the past 48 hours,” Beach writes.
“Although the results of the private investigation have been released, and the Blackhawks have apologized, my battle is really just beginning as the Blackhawks continue to attempt to destroy my case in court.
“While I take this time to reflect and continue the healing process, it is a reminder that this is not about me as an individual. This is to promote open communication that will facilitate change for the future — to promote safety, as well as the health and well-being of society as a whole.
“Thank you.”
Beach identified himself as one of the victims alleging he was sexually assaulted by a former Blackhawks video coach in an interview with TSN on Wednesday. The accusations have not been heard or proven in court.
The team issued a statement after the interview aired, commending Beach’s “courage” for coming forward.
The Chicago Sun-Times reported the Blackhawks will begin settlement talks with Susan Loggans, the lawyer representing Beach, next week.
The Blackhawks filed documents to dismiss two lawsuits on Wednesday, but the team told the Sun-Times it was simply following legal protocol.
The 31-year-old Beach was a member of the Blackhawks’ AHL affiliate in 2010 and was called up to skate with the NHL squad. The native of Kelowna, B.C., was a first-round pick (11th overall) of the Blackhawks in the 2008 NHL Draft.
The forward stayed with Rockford through the first part of the 2013-14 season before heading to Sweden to play. He never suited up for the Blackhawks in a regular season or playoff game.
