Gavin McKenna, the projected first overall pick in next month's NHL draft, is at the center of a legal controversy involving his mother. Krystal McKenna, 44, has been charged with two misdemeanor counts of furnishing alcohol to minors at Doggie's Pub in State College, Pennsylvania, on January 31, according to court documents reported by the Centre Daily Times.
Incident at the Bar
On the evening of January 31, Gavin McKenna and several Penn State teammates gathered at the bar after an outdoor hockey game. Later, an altercation occurred between McKenna's group and a 21-year-old man and his friends. McKenna allegedly punched the man twice, fracturing his jaw, which required surgery and wiring shut for two weeks.
Charges Against Gavin McKenna
Initially charged with felony aggravated assault, the charge was reduced after video evidence showed no intent to cause serious injury. McKenna now faces misdemeanor simple assault, along with summary counts of harassment and disorderly conduct. He was released on $20,000 unsecured bail and is scheduled to appear in court on Monday.
Mother's Alleged Role
A liquor control officer alleges that Krystal McKenna was seen on security footage giving her son an alcoholic drink in a plastic cup. She is also accused of ordering two mixed drinks containing vodka, handing one to her son and pouring the other into cups for two underage girls. The legal drinking age in the U.S. is 21, but the bar allows minors until 7 p.m. with wristbands identifying them.
Background and Draft Prospects
Gavin McKenna, from Whitehorse, Yukon, scored 15 goals and 36 assists in 35 games for Penn State this season. He is projected to be selected first overall in the June 27 NHL draft. Following the Toronto Maple Leafs winning the draft lottery, fans have eagerly purchased jerseys with his number 72, anticipating his arrival in Toronto.
The altercation is rumored to have been sparked by the victim insulting McKenna's mother. A preliminary hearing for Krystal McKenna is set for June 3.
