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Le Bouthillier said the subject of the alleged assault was flown home early on a commercial flight so as “to distance” the individual from the accused. “The victim was subsequently offered — and accepted — the option to return home on a civilian flight accompanied by others,” he said. “This was done so that we could distance the victim from the accused and to ensure they can receive the requisite support, as applicable.”

In all, four flight attendants were flown home to Canada on a commercial aircraft at a cost of $6,500 for each ticket.

Le Bouthillier said Williams “was allowed to continue on with the rest of the group to ensure sufficient distance from the victim, noting as well that he was not charged at the time and it was a fluid situation.”

After arriving in Latvia, Williams played in a morale-boosting hockey game which was promoted on social media by the Canadian Embassy in Latvia. He later flew back to Canada on a military flight.

Le Bouthillier said the Canadian Forces took care of the alleged victim “with respect and dignity, while dealing with the accused through a thorough and expedient police investigation.”

“In all cases, the subject of charges is presumed innocent until proven guilty,” military police added in a news release. “The matter is now proceeding in accordance with the civilian justice system and will be brought forward by the Crown Attorney in Ottawa at a date still to be determined.”

Military police have jurisdiction over civilian personnel on Canadian Forces bases and deployments.

Williams, 64, was an NHL enforcer who played for teams including the Toronto Maple Leafs, Vancouver Canucks, Detroit Red Wings and Los Angeles Kings. He retired in 1988.

Usually comprised of about 20 people, the Team Canada trips began in 2006 and happen approximately twice a year. They are organized by the DND/CAF Strategic Outreach Team, which reports to the office of the chief of the defence staff.

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