Flames prospect Topi Ronni facing rape charge

The 2022 second-round draft choice has left his team over allegations for an incident which occurred more than two years ago

Calgary Flames prospect Topi Ronni is facing criminal charges of rape for an incident more than two years ago.

Ronni, Calgary’s second-round draft pick (59th overall) in 2022, has been playing for Tappara Tampere of the SM-ligga, but will be away from the team until further notice according to team’s website.

In the release, according to a translation, Ronni said, “I have received a summons application related to the matter. The last two or so years have been hard waiting for the matter to progress. I trust that the related course of events will be clarified in connection with the trial. I am away from the team's activities for the time being and I am focusing on handling the matter.”

The Flames released a statement on Thursday noting they “became aware of a potential legal issue involving Topi Ronni following our selection of him in the 2022 NHL Draft,” added they “take this matter seriously and will let the legal process follow it’s due course" and will not comment further.

According to the release, the Helsinki District Court has not yet determined the hearing date of the case and the case documents have been ordered to be kept secret. Ronni, 19, was a minor at the time.

"We take the suspected crime seriously, but we are waiting for the court hearing and will evaluate the player's position afterwards. This is also about labor law,” club CEO Mika Aro.

Ronni, who had collected one goal and one assist in 12 games this season, was expected to be on Finland’s squad for the World Juniors. Has has not been signed to an NHL contract.