Assault Charge Against Boston Bruins Veteran Milan Lucic Dismissed – WHDH 7News Provides Details
In a surprising turn of events, the assault charge against Boston Bruins veteran Milan Lucic has been dismissed. The judge in the case granted a motion from Lucic’s defense to exclude a 911 call made by his wife Brittany, which played a crucial role in prompting the charge. The judge ruled that the call should not be entered into evidence due to the inability to cross-examine the accuser, as Lucic’s wife invoked spousal privilege and refused to testify at trial.
The state, after the judge’s decision, informed the court that they were unable to proceed with the trial. The Suffolk County District Attorney’s office released a statement saying, “This situation is something prosecutors encounter quite often in matters involving domestic violence charges. We handled this case exactly as we would any other presenting a similar set of circumstances.”
This is not the first time Lucic has faced legal trouble. Last year, he pleaded not guilty to a charge of assault and battery after being arrested at his North End apartment by Boston Police. However, his defense attorney, Gary Pelletier, maintains Lucic’s innocence. Pelletier stated outside the court following the dismissal, “He did not strangle her. There was nothing like that that ever happened… There was never an assault in this case.”
According to a police report from the incident, a family member had reached out to authorities and claimed that Lucic had attempted to choke her. The report states that Lucic came home and became angry when he couldn’t find his cell phone. He accused the family member of hiding it and demanded it back. When she denied having it or knowing its whereabouts, Lucic allegedly grabbed her by the hair and pulled her backwards.
The family member declined treatment and denied being strangled when questioned by the police. However, officers noted redness in her chest area. She also mentioned that she believed Lucic had been drinking.
Upon meeting with Lucic, officers observed that he appeared to have been drinking. They discovered a broken lamp and broken glass in the apartment, but Lucic claimed the shards were from plastic.
Following his arrest, the Bruins placed Lucic on indefinite leave. The team’s decision was a necessary precaution until the legal proceedings could be resolved.
Lucic, choosing to remain silent, refused to comment when approached by 7News as he left the courthouse.
While this incident has brought negative attention to Lucic, it is worth noting that he has been an integral member of the Boston Bruins for several years. Known for his physicality and scoring ability, Lucic has contributed greatly to the team’s success on the ice.
It is important to remember that every individual is innocent until proven guilty. With the dismissal of the assault charge against Milan Lucic, it remains to be seen how this episode will impact his personal and professional life moving forward.
