Shawn Oakman suspended for gender-based violations and released by Montreal Alouettes
Defensive lineman Shawn Oakman has been suspended indefinitely by the Canadian Football League for violating its gender-based violence and harassment policy, leading to his release from the Montreal Alouettes on Friday night. This decision comes after serious allegations surfaced against Oakman, prompting an immediate investigation by the league.
Allegations and investigation
The CFL was alerted to the allegations against Oakman on Thursday, which led to a swift third-party investigation. The inquiry included interviews with both Oakman and the complainant. According to the findings, Oakman allegedly threatened to send sexually explicit material to the child of an intimate partner, who is a minor. Such actions are a clear violation of the league’s strict policy on gender-based violence and harassment.
CFL Commissioner Stewart Johnston emphasized the league’s commitment to addressing these issues, stating, “The Canadian Football League takes violations of our gender-based violence and harassment policy with the utmost seriousness.” He reiterated that the CFL will not tolerate any form of gender-based violence, whether in public or private settings.
Alouettes’ response
Following the league’s decision, the Alouettes acted quickly to release Oakman. General manager Danny Maciocia stated, “We hold everyone in our organization to the highest standard of integrity and respect both on and off the field. We’ve decided to release Shawn Oakman because his actions go against our core values.”
Oakman’s controversial past
Oakman, who joined the Alouettes as a free agent in February, has had a tumultuous career. While in the NCAA, he was kicked off the Penn State University football team for violating team rules. He later faced serious allegations in 2016 when he was accused of sexually assaulting a Baylor University student. This case went to trial, and Oakman was found not guilty in February 2019.
Despite these controversies, he has had notable success in the CFL, recording 156 defensive tackles and 27 sacks over 76 games, and winning a Grey Cup with the Toronto Argonauts in 2022.
This incident marks a significant moment for the CFL as it continues to reinforce its stance against gender-based violence, ensuring that all players are held accountable for their actions both on and off the field.
