U.S. National Hockey League star Patrick Kane was indicted on misdemeanor theft and assault charges on Wednesday after a cab fare dispute.

Prosecutors said a more serious felony charge of second-degree robbery was dropped.

Jan Radecki, a 62-year-old cab driver, told police he was attacked by Kane and his cousin, James Kane, after he said he did not have 20 cents in change for the fare on August 9.

Kane and his cousin, who faces indictment on the same charges, had earlier pleaded not guilty to the charges. Their arraignments were scheduled for Thursday.

Kane, playing for Chicago Blackhawks, has 46 goals and 96 assists, in his first two NHL seasons.

(Xinhua News Agency August 20, 2009)