We finally have a resolution to the rape investigation involving Chicago Blackhawks forward Patrick Kane. Erie County District Attorney Frank Sedita announced Thursday morning that Kane would not face charges as a result of the allegations, according to both The Buffalo News and News 4 Buffalo.
Per The News, Sedita cited a lack of proof in his decision not to prosecute Kane.
You can read the District Attorney's full statement regarding the decision here.
Among the findings of the DA's "exhaustive investigation" were "significant material inconsistencies between the complainant's account and those of other witnesses," and DNA results, which lent "no corroboration whatsoever to the complainant's claim of penetration."
The complainant also chose not to move forward with a criminal prosecution. She signed a "Non Prosecution Affidavit," which states, per the DA's release, "That after fully discussing all the circumstances with my attorney, I have decided I do not wish to criminally prosecute the charges which stem out of this investigation. I do so of my own free will and without any promises or compensation."
As the release notes, the alleged victim's decision not to pursue a criminal prosecution is not a deciding factor in whether or not a suspect will be charged, though it is also "an important factor in determining whether a criminal prosecution, brought by this office on behalf of the People of the State of New York, will go forward."
Ultimately though, Sedita's office determined that the "case" against Kane was "rife" with reasonable doubt.
There had been a growing sense in recent days that the case against Kane had begun to crumble. A report suggested that Kane would avoid charges altogether - a report Kane denied, indicating he'd allow the legal process to play itself out - while another indicated that the alleged victim no longer wished to cooperate with the investigation.
Kane, 26, became the focus of the investigation in early Aug. after reportedly meeting the alleged victim at a nightclub in downtown Buffalo and returning with her, and others, to his lakefront home in Hamburg, NY. The investigation has seen numerous ups and downs, including the withdrawal of the victim's original lawyer, Thomas J. Eoannou, after what Sedita dubbed, an "elaborate hoax" involving a fake evidence bag.
Many in and around the NHL took issue with the Blackhawks decision to allow Kane to take part in training camp and remain with the team throughout the ordeal, but ultimately, it seems that Chicago's decision will be vindicated, though many will still likely feel it was the wrong one at the time.
