Flyers prospect Cousins charged with sexual assault

Nick Cousins, a third-round pick of the Flyers in 2011, was charged with sexual assault, according to Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario police.

Cousins, 19, was arrested with two teammates on the Saute Ste. Marie Greyhounds. According to a release from the Sault Ste. Marie police, the alleged assault was against "a female known to them."

The Sault Ste. Marie police confirmed the charges to the Daily News.

"We are aware of the unfortunate situation involving Nick Cousins. Due to lack of information available to us, we will not comment at this time," Flyers general manager Paul Holmgren said Sunday in a statement.

The other two players charged are Mark Petaccio, 18, and Andrew Fritsch, 19, a Coyotes 2011 draft pick. Cousins' court appearance is Oct. 1.

Cousins, a center, scored 35 goals and had 53 assists in 65 games last season.

The Greyhounds posted this statement on their website:

"Earlier today our organization was made aware of accusations involving three members of our hockey program.

"Over the course of time that each of these players has been part of our program we have seen each of them make excellent strides both on and off the ice. The strides made over each young man's tenure here are what makes today's situation so surprising.

"Our Hockey Club will continue to perform our duty in supporting the three members of our team as they go through the legal process. Our Hockey Club will now allow the legal process to run its due course at this time. We will also continue to support the investigation of the Sault Ste. Marie Police Services in any way possible."