Kings' Voynov charged with domestic assault
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}Los Angeles, CA (SportsNetwork.com) - Los Angeles Kings defenseman Slava Voynov has been charged with a felony stemming from an arrest last month on suspicion of domestic violence.
The Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office announced Thursday that Voynov, who is currently under indefinite suspension by the NHL, faces one felony count of corporal injury to spouse with great bodily injury for an alleged attack on his wife at their Redondo Beach home on Oct. 19.
Voynov is scheduled to be arraigned in Los Angeles County Superior Court on Dec. 1. He is presently free on bond.
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}The 24-year-old Russian could receive a sentence up to nine years in prison if convicted.
According to the release, Voynov caused his wife to suffer serious injuries to her eyebrow, cheek and neck following an argument. The woman was later taken to a local hospital, where Voynov was arrested.
The NHL immediately suspended Voynov indefinitely following news of the incident and will continue to do so through the duration of the case.
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}"We are aware of the actions taken today in California, which we will review and evaluate before making any decisions," said NHL deputy commissioner Bill Daly. "Until further notice, the current terms of Mr. Voynov's suspension remain in place."
Voynov last played on Oct. 19, the same night of the suspected attack.
Craig Renetzky, Voynov's attorney, maintained his client's innocence in an interview with the Los Angeles Times released Thursday.
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}"Mr. Voynov is extremely disappointed that the district attorney's office elected to file charges," Renetzky said. "Mr. Voynov maintains his innocence and looks forward to clearing his name in court. We remain confident."
Voynov joined the Kings during the 2011-12 season and helped the franchise capture its first Stanley Cup as a rookie, recording eight goals and 12 assists over 54 games. The 2008 second-round draft choice posted four goals and a career-high 34 points in 82 games last season, which also ended in a Kings' championship.