Ian Cole Suspended Amid Sexual Abuse Allegations

Tampa Bay Lightning defenseman Ian Cole was suspended on Sunday for sexual abuse allegations. The Lightning made a statement on Sunday announcing the suspension on social media. According to CBS Sports, investigations into the allegations made against Cole “sexually abusing a woman while she was a minor” are currently being conducted by the NHL and Lighrtning.

In the statement, Tampa said “we have decided to suspend Ian Cole pending the results of an investigation. No members of the organization, including players, will comment further at this time.” Cole has now made a comment on the matter. Cole made a statement denying the allegations, saying “I look forward to clearing my name and demonstrating to the NHL and the Tampa Bay Lightning that these allegations are unfounded.”