Hockey Player Is Charged

A standout minor-league defenseman could face up to four years in jail after being charged with using his hockey stick as a deadly weapon.

Dean Trboyevich of the Anchorage Aces was released from jail early Wednesday after posting $20,000 bail. He was scheduled to appear in Fresno County court on Wednesday.

Trboyevich cross-checked Jacques Mailhot of the Fresno Falcons about five minutes into the first period Tuesday night. He was ejected from the game and suspended pending a review by the West Coast Hockey League.

Trboyevich was assessed a major penalty for high-sticking and a match penalty for attempting to injure after the cross-check. Mailhot apparently didn’t suffer any serious injury and continued playing.

It was Mailhot who wanted Trboyevich arrested, making the request between the first and second periods, said Falcon spokesman Eric Broadwater. An off-ice official called authorities, and Mailhot was questioned at Selland Arena. Trboyevich was arrested at his hotel after the game.