Police Won't Charge Former Devils Player Jim Dowd In Alleged Assault

WALL TOWNSHIP, N.J. (CBSNewYork/AP) - Police in New Jersey have decided not to file criminal charges against a former NHL player who was accused of kicking a player on the high school team he coaches in the back.

Jim Dowd played 17 seasons in the NHL and won a Stanley Cup with the New Jersey Devils. He coaches the Manasquan High School hockey team.

A complaint filed by a parent in Wall Township accused Dowd of kicking a 16-year-old player in the back on Jan. 7 when the team played Red Bank Regional.

As CBS2's Ilana Gold reported, Dowd stepped down as head coach of the Manasquan/Point Pleasant Beach High School hockey team while police investigated allegations that have parents and students in disbelief.

"I find it surprising," said parent Anthony Esdeile.

Rachel Herman's cousin has played under Dowd all season.

"(What's everyone saying about the accusations?) That they're ridiculous," the high school student said.

Wall Township Police Chief Robert Brice said that after an investigation his department won't file criminal charges against Dowd in an emailed statement Friday.

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