The Allegation
Benjamin Warda, 38, serves as the head coach of the Grosse Pointe South Varsity Hockey Team and operates Detroit Premier Hockey, a private training organization. He was arrested after prosecutors said he assaulted a woman on his boat in St. Clair Shores on June 13.
According to the charging documents, the incident occurred during a private gathering on the water, where Warda is alleged to have engaged in non-consensual sexual activity. The victim reported the assault to local authorities, prompting a swift investigation by the Macomb County Prosecutor's Office.
Court Action and Potential Penalties
Warda was arraigned on July 1 and held on a $50,000 bond. He is scheduled to return to court on July 14 for a probable cause conference, where further details of the case may be disclosed.
If convicted of third-degree criminal sexual conduct, the coach could receive a prison sentence of up to 15 years, a penalty that reflects the seriousness of the offense under Michigan law.
Beyond the courtroom, Warda also leads the Detroit Bulldogs 9U youth hockey team, a program that could face disruption if the charges result in a conviction or suspension.
Macomb County Prosecutor's Office officials have declined to comment on the specifics of the investigation, citing ongoing legal proceedings, but have emphasized their commitment to pursuing justice for the alleged victim.