Chicago Blackhawk Patrick Kane's summer vacation took a twist when he was arrested and charged with robbery and other counts following an altercation with a cabbie. Kane, 20, and his cousin James Kane, 21, were taken into custody early Sunday morning on August 9, 2009. The pair allegedly punched a cab driver and took their $15 fare from him after he did not have the 20 cent change for their cab ride.
Apparently, the cab driver suffered cuts to his face and his glasses were damaged in the tussle. Both Kanes were charged with felony robbery and misdemeanor counts of theft of services and criminal mischief.
Patrick Kane plays for the Chicago Blackhawks and was the #1 overall draft pick in the 2007 NHL draft.
New Jersey Criminal Lawyer Blog's Take: This is a classic example of a "stupid mistake." Kane and his cousin will have to show that they are contrite. The most important thing for them is what happens with the felony charge. They have been very fortunate to have avoided indictment on the most serious of the charges. They will both probably face steep fines and other potential sanctions, but the threat of any serious jail time has passed.
Once this matter reaches its conclusion, Patrick Kane will face the task of rehabbing his public image because there is not much sympathy for a professional athlete roughing up a taxi cab driver in the middle of the night.
