Chicago Blackhawks wonder kid Patrick Kane was arrested early Sunday morning in Buffalo, NY after allegedly beating up a cab driver over 20¢.

Kane, who grew up in Buffalo, was out for a night of fun with cousin James Kane.  The two hailed a cab and paid for their $13.80 fare with $15.00.  When the cab driver told them that he didn’t have the proper change, they snatched their money back and assaulted the man.  According to the police, the driver reported that they took their money back, punched him in the face, choked him and broke his glasses.  He is said to have received cuts to his face.

The Kanes were charged with second degree robbery, criminal mischief and theft of services.  Patrick Kane pleaded not guilty in city court on Sunday morning.  James Kane has yet to appear before the judge.

Spokesman for the Blackhawks Brandon Faber said of Kane and his actions, “He is a big part of our organization and a team leader and we stand behind him … As we are still collecting all the facts, it would be premature to comment further at this time.”  Though they feel that the situation will be easily resolved.

Shame Shame, Patrick Kane.  Surely a rising star in the NHL can afford to overlook 20¢.

UPDATE:

Well, Patrick Kane, who was surely hoping that this would settle quickly so that he can continue with his Olympic training, has been indicted and charged with misdemeanor assault and theft.  The more serious felony charge of second-degree robbery was dropped.  If the two were convicted they could end up serving a year in jail.  That should put a real cramp in the wonder kid’s budding career and the Blackhawks’ marketing campaign that surrounds the 20 year old forward.

The cab driver, Jan Radecki, has requested no jail time for the boys, but simply a public apology.  Come on, Patrick, it’s the least you can do.  You did break the man’s glasses over 20¢.  Arraignment is set for Thursday.

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