Redemption or Controversy? Convicted Rapist and Criminal Signs New Deal

Igor Burdetskiy June 11, 2023

4 1 minute read

Ben Johnson, a former NHL draft pick, has been offered a contract in Germany for the 2023–24 campaign. Due to his criminal record, which resulted in the termination of his NHL contract and a three-year jail sentence for Johnson, the player is quite problematic.

Johnson will receive a one-year deal with the Krefeld Pinguine of the DEL2, despite his extremely volatile and troubled past.

Johnson was selected by the New Jersey Devils in the third round of the 2012 NHL Draft. He even signed an entry-level contract with the team, but it was soon terminated as the public learned about the crimes he had committed.

He played in the top Slovak league the previous season before moving to Germany for the coming one.

WARNING: The next part of this story includes extremely delicate matters, including rape and sexual assault. If you find these topics uncomfortable, please stop reading right away.

Ben Johnson was found guilty of two distinct counts of rape and sexual assault that took place while he was a player for the OHL’s Windsor Spitfires. The two incidences, which each happened in the restrooms of two different bars, happened within a few weeks of one another.

In the first incident, Johnson coerced a 20-year-old woman into engaging in sexual activity with him. In the second incident, Johnson again coerced a 16-year-old girl into having sex with him before raping her. The second female was under the influence when the crime was committed.

While some would argue that Johnson has atoned for his misdeeds and should be let to resume playing professional hockey, we disagree. Johnson was sentenced to three years in jail as a result of his conviction back in 2016. Johnson committed horrendous atrocities, and his punishment was way too little.

Our hearts go out to the Johnson victims, and we really hope that they have healed and found peace.

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Igor Burdetskiy

Founder, Editor-in-Chief, & CEO at Hooked on Hockey Magazine

I grew up playing Ball and Roller Hockey day and night somewhat religiously throughout elementary and middle school. The two don't compare though when I lace up the skates and hit the ice. I live and breathe hockey beyond the perspective of "it's just a game" and I will gladly talk hockey for hours with anyone. Hockey is more than just a lifestyle, it's a culture of passionate people who make memories every time the puck is dropped. Hockey has not only helped me get through some of the hardest times in life but has created some of the best memories to date. Want to talk hockey with me? Shoot me an email: iburdetskiy@hookedonhockey.com and let's talk some hockey!