Cleveland Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson should say whether or not he had intercourse with 18 therapeutic massage therapists who supported him final yr following prison complaints and lawsuits from different ladies, a decide in Texas dominated on Tuesday.
USA As we speak reported that Watson has 30 days to conform. He beforehand wouldn't deal with his previous with the therapists. Watson additionally has to supply different details about his therapeutic massage historical past since 2019, together with any language in his contract with the Texans about massages.
One of many NFL’s prime quarterbacks, Watson was traded final month from Houston to Cleveland.
He has been accused by 22 ladies of sexual misconduct throughout remedy classes, lots of which he organized by contacting the therapists on social media in 2020 and 2021.
Up to now, two grand juries have declined to indict Watson on 10 prison complaints filed to Houston police. He nonetheless faces the civil fits and has been giving depositions on these for a number of weeks.
As a part of these lawsuits, the ladies’s attorneys need Watson to reply written “requests for admission” about whether or not he had intercourse with the 18 therapists who backed him after the primary lawsuits in opposition to him have been filed in March 2021.
The plaintiffs’ attorneys say the solutions would display a sample and motives for establishing the massages.
At Tuesday’s listening to in Harris county, Decide Rabeea Sultan Collier dominated within the plaintiff’s favor, USA As we speak stated. Watson’s legal professional requested for the reasoning, however Collier didn’t clarify.
“The objection is overruled,” the decide stated in response. “Thanks.”
Watson, a three-time Professional Bowler, didn't play final season after asking the Texans to commerce him. When the primary grand jury selected to not indict Watson, it sparked curiosity from the Browns and several other NFL groups.
Watson initially turned down the Browns earlier than altering his thoughts, waiving his no-trade clause and signing a file five-year, $230m totally assured contract with Cleveland.
Browns homeowners Dee and Jimmy Haslam stated they initially struggled with the choice to pursue Watson, figuring out it could not be in style with many followers. Nevertheless, they stated they turned extra snug with signing him after assembly with Watson and studying extra about him.
When launched by Cleveland late final month, Watson informed the media: “I’ve by no means assaulted or disrespected or harassed any lady in my life. I’ve by no means finished these items persons are alleging.” It was the primary time he had answered direct questions concerning the allegations.
Watson nonetheless may face self-discipline by the NFL.
Final week, NFL commissioner Roger Goodell stated there was no timetable on the league’s investigation into Watson’s off-field conduct. An impartial arbitrator will decide whether or not Watson violated the league’s personal-conduct coverage earlier than Goodell points any penalty.
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