Reports: Former NHL player Jim Dowd accused of kicking HS hockey player
As a former NHL player, Jim Dowd was no stranger to penalties. Now, as a high school hockey coach he is facing time in court for allegedly kicking a 16-year-old player in the back in New Jersey.
Dowd waived his court appearance on Tuesday at Wall Municipal Court, according to multiple reports.
A new court date is expected next week.
Dowd was a 17-year NHL veteran and a Stanley Cup champion with the New Jersey Devils in 1994-95.
Dowd has been removed from his position as head coach at Manasquan/Point Pleasant Beach cooperative program after a parent filed simple assault charges over the incident.
Manasquan Superintendent Dr. Frank Kasyan told the Asbury Park Press no immediate disciplinary action has been taken against Dowd.
"There is no disciplinary action being taken at this point because the police are still investigating the complaint and I have nothing to discipline," Kasyan said.
"Up until this point Jim has been a good upstanding citizen and a perfect coach for us," Kasyan added. "His reputation in the community has been great. I've been to games, I have seen him coach and he has been wonderful with the kids."
The team, which has Dowd's son on its roster, is 3-9 this season, the first with the former NHL veteran as its coach.
The incident being reviewed allegedly occurred on Wednesday, Jan. 7, at the Jersey Shore Arena in Wall when Red Bank Regional traveled to the home rink of Manasquan-Point Pleasant Beach.
