Houston Texans quarterback Deshaun Watson's lawyer went after opposing counsel Monday after 14 lawsuits were filed against Watson alleging sexual assault and harassment.
Rusty Hardin fired back at attorney Tony Buzbee, who is representing most of the plaintiffs, in a statement to TMZ. Hardin said both he and his client understand sexual assault and harassment are “unlawful” and “morally wrong.”
But Hardin said Buzbee's chaotic dissemination of the lawsuits and associated materials does not reflect fairness to his client:
“Opposing counsel has orchestrated a circus-like atmosphere by using social media to publicize 14 “Jane Doe” lawsuits during the past seven days in a manner calculated to inflame the public and malign Deshaun Watson's otherwise sterling reputation,” Hardin said, via TMZ. “In addition, the tactic of refusing our requests to confidentially provide the names of the plaintiffs so we can fully investigate their claims makes uncovering the truth extremely difficult. Anonymity is often necessary as a shield for victims but opposing counsel has used it as a sword to publicly humiliate Deshaun before the truth‑seeking process can even begin.”
Hardin continued further, saying he believes allegations suggesting the Texans star coerced sexual acts are “completely false.”
That wasn't all, however. Hardin added his legal team identified one of the plaintiffs, who allegedly attempted to blackmail Watson out of $30,000 for “indefinite silence” regarding what she deemed a consensual encounter. He also said his legal team has received “unsolicited” comments from massage therapists saying Deshaun Watson exhibited good character and was a “model client” in their dealings with him.
The public should continue to learn more over time. Buzbee had indicated he was going to submit affidavits and evidence to the Houston Police department. The NFL has also launched a separate investigation, with Buzbee saying his clients would cooperate with said investigation.
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