Former Vancouver Canuck defenseman Willie Mitchell has responded to a civil lawsuit filed against him by a woman identified as S.D.K., alleging sexual assault in Tofino, B.C. Mitchell claims that the plaintiff, a 26-year-old off-duty server at the Tofino Resort and Marina, was a willing participant in their sexual encounter.
According to Mitchell, on the night of September 11, 2022, he was intoxicated after attending an event at the Hatch Pub within the resort, where he was also the managing director. Mitchell states that S.D.K. approached him, and they engaged in dancing and kissing on the dance floor before continuing in the bathroom.
A designated driver reportedly drove Mitchell and S.D.K. back to his condo, where they had consensual intercourse that night and the following morning. Mitchell asserts that S.D.K. verbally and physically expressed enjoyment before and during their encounters, indicating her consent.
Despite S.D.K. filing a report with the RCMP, no charges were brought against Mitchell following a criminal investigation in which he cooperated. The lawsuit also names the Tofino Resort and Marina and an associated company as defendants, seeking damages for the plaintiff’s alleged injuries and loss of earning capacity.
In response to the allegations, Mitchell emphasizes that he has been undergoing counseling since the incident and is dedicated to his family. He is described as a committed philanthropist engaged in charitable activities throughout British Columbia.