Hockey player denies having sexual contact with teen girl

POTSDAM — A Clarkson University hockey prospect pleaded innocent Wednesday to having sexual contact with a 16-year-old girl without her consent at the school's summer hockey camp.

Demetri J. Sakaris, 19, Candiac, Quebec, made the plea before Village Judge Joseph T. Welch. His next court appearance is Oct. 14.

He was charged with sexual misconduct and child endangerment, both misdemeanors. Judge Welch also signed a protection order for the victim.

Defense attorney John K. Collins and Mr. Sakaris declined comment after the arraignment.

Two other Clarkson hockey recruits face similar charges connected to alleged crimes at the summer camp. Freshman Patrick M. McEachen, 18, of Stouffville, Ontario, awaits arraignment. Jordan A. Ciccarello, 18, New Hartford, Conn., pleaded innocent Sept. 9 in Village Court. Both are charged with sexual misconduct and child endangerment.

Under state law, a defendant convicted on a sexual misconduct charge must register as a sex offender. The three charged could serve up to a year in jail and be fined if convicted.

Mr. Ciccarello and Mr. McEachen, both defensemen, were expected to play this season for the Golden Knights. Mr. Sakaris was looking to attend Clarkson to play in 2011.

Clarkson is conducting an investigation into the incidents. The school could penalize Mr. Ciccarello and Mr. McEachen based on its findings. The players have not been allowed to participate in team activities.

The incidents allegedly happened on campus in early July.