Mike Ribeiro pleads guilty in disturbing sexual assault case

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Axel Williams
October 8, 2024 (8:18)

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Back in 2021, former NHL player Mike Ribeiro, who once played for the Montreal Canadiens, Nashville Predators, and Dallas Stars, was accused by three women of alleged sexual assault.

The alleged incident reportedly took place on a boat in Franklin County near Dallas. Originally, Ribeiro went to court in February of this year to stand trial, and he was acquitted of the two sexual assault charges brought against him. However, he was facing a third charge of attempted sexual assault. In the end, he opted to plead guilty and has essentially admitted to touching the woman inappropriately.

"The young lady in this case was, once again, ready to place herself on the altar of truth for the sake of justice. However, in the end, to hear Mr. Ribeiro finally admit under oath that he violated her without her consent for his own sexual desire meant more than the possibility of hearing a future verdict read by the Judge," a statement from 8th Judicial District Attorney Will Ramsay read.

The victim made a statement on the stand, and it was an emotional one in which she chose to forgive Ribeiro for his actions.

"Forgiveness is not a feeling; it's a choice. Although I have forgiven you, I can only pray the others affected will choose to do the same, not for you, but for themselves," she said

Ribeiro will not have to go to jail as part of this guilty plea. Instead, he will pay a $4000 fine and has to pay out all of his legal fees.

This is a sad case and we hope the victims are able to find comfort and peace.

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Source: Fox 4 News
Former Dallas Star Mike Ribeiro pleads guilty to indecent assault