Clarkson students accused of sex contact

POTSDAM — Two Clarkson University men's hockey recruits are accused of having sexual contact with an underage girl without her consent on campus.

Jordan A. Ciccarello, 18, of New Hartford, Conn., and Patrick M. McEachen, 18, of Stouffville, Ontario, each were charged Saturday with sexual misconduct and child endangerment, both misdemeanors, state police said. The incident reportedly happened in early July.

The investigation is continuing and more arrests are possible, state police Lt. Scott K. Heggelke said.

"Clarkson was made aware of the allegations (Sunday)," said Kelly O. Chezum, Clarkson's vice president for external relations. "We took immediate action."

Clarkson initiated its own inquiry into the allegations and could penalize the two freshmen based on their findings. Should the students be convicted, they face potential discipline ranging to expulsion. The college is cooperating with law enforcement in the investigation.

Mr. Ciccarello's and Mr. McEachen's statuses with the Golden Knights hockey team aren't known.

"The team status of first-year students is not relevant until the season begins," Ms. Chezum said.

Mr. McEachen, a cousin of former Clarkson player Michael Sullivan, played defense last season for the Stouffville Spirits in the Ontario Junior Hockey League. He had 13 goals and 26 assists in 49 games. He originally had planned to play hockey at the University of Maine.

Mr. Ciccarello played defense last season at South Kent Prep in Connecticut.