Jury indicts NHL star Patrick Kane

BUFFALO, N.Y., Aug. 19 (UPI) -- Chicago Blackhawks star Patrick Kane and his cousin, James, were indicted Wednesday on misdemeanor charges for allegedly attacking a Buffalo cab driver.

The charges -- third-degree assault, theft of services and harassment -- stem from their Aug. 9 arrest following a dispute with Jan Radecki.

The cabbie told Buffalo police he was punched in the face and grabbed by the throat when he did not have 20 cents in change for their fare.

Erie County prosecutor Frank A. Sedita III said the grand jury dismissed a more serious felony charge of second-degree robbery.

"For a first offense, that's extremely rare," Sedita told the Buffalo News when discussing possible jail time.

Both Kanes are expected to be arraigned Thursday.

Patrick Kane, 20, a South Buffalo native, was the first overall pick in the 2007 NHL draft.

Last season, he compiled 25 goals and 45 assists in 80 games.