Colorado Avalanche goalie (and former Washington Capitals goalie) Semyon Varlamov turned himself to police yesterday after an arrest warrant was issued for his arrest. Varlamov is being charged with second degree kidnapping and third degree assault, which is a felony. He is being held without bail due to the assault charge, and must meet with a judge to discuss his options. Varlamov was off to a very good start with the Avalanche this season, with an 7-1 record and a 1.76 GAA in 8 games. He was a first round pick of the Capitals in 2006, and was traded to the Avalanche for a first round pick back in 2011.
The Colorado Avalanche have issued the following statement:
“The Colorado Avalanche organization is aware of the allegations concerning Semyon Varlamov. At this time, and until the conclusion of this investigation, the Avalanche organization will have no further comment on this situation.”
In case you’re a fan of conspiracy theories, a Russian official claims that Varlamov’s arrest is a conspiracy to weaken Russia’s Olympic Hockey team.
Speaking through a translator, Varlamov’s father claimed that his son is innocent.
Varly’s dad: “The situation is not as bad as the media is presenting. Semyon is not facing serious problems.” via Samara Media
— Dmitry Chesnokov (@dchesnokov) October 31, 2013
Another reason this is really bad for Varlamov: If convicted, he can be deported.
A potential in Varly’s case (if convicted): domestic violence is a deportable offense under Sec 237 of the Immigration and Nationality Act.
— Dmitry Chesnokov (@dchesnokov) October 31, 2013
My guess is that he probably won’t be allowed to leave the state of Colorado if he is allowed out of prison. Colorado is notorious for being extremely strict about domestic abuse.
