In a notable decision made on Tuesday, a U.S. District Court judge in California dismissed a high-profile federal lawsuit against James Dolan, the owner of the New York Knicks and New York Rangers. The decision effectively put an end to severe allegations of sexual assault and sex trafficking against one of the most influential figures in American sports.
Background of the Case
The lawsuit, initially filed by Kellye Croft on January 16, made grave accusations dating back to 2013. According to the lawsuit, Dolan sexually assaulted Croft while his band was on tour with The Eagles. The complaint detailed how Dolan was "extremely assertive, and pressured Ms. Croft into unwanted sexual intercourse with him," despite her explicit objections.
Furthermore, Croft's allegations expanded to suggest that she was flown to California later that year under false pretenses to work as a massage therapist, only to be allegedly trafficked by Dolan to "engage in unlawful and unwelcome sex acts."
In a further disturbing claim, Croft alleged that Dolan facilitated her meeting with the convicted sex offender and former movie producer Harvey Weinstein in January 2014, which led to an assault by Weinstein.
Court Decision
U.S. District Judge Percy Anderson's ruling led to the dismissal of Croft's sex trafficking allegations with prejudice, meaning that these charges cannot be brought up again. However, the judge dismissed other claims, including sexual battery against Dolan, sexual assault by Weinstein, and aiding and abetting of sexual assault by Dolan, without prejudice. This nuanced decision means that while some of the charges are permanently closed, others can be refiled if Croft chooses to do so.
Additionally, the court ordered Croft to pay the defendant's court costs. Initially, Croft had sought monetary damages and a trial by jury for her charges.
Reactions from Croft's Legal Team
Croft's attorneys, Kevin Mintzer and Meredith Firetog, have expressed their disagreement with the court's decision, indicating plans to appeal. "We respectfully disagree with the District Court's decision, which we believe incorrectly interprets the federal sex trafficking law and undermines critically important protections for sex trafficking survivors," they stated.
They further added, "We will be appealing this decision and are confident that the Court of Appeals will correct this injustice. We will also continue to pursue Ms. Croft's sexual battery claims against James Dolan and Harvey Weinstein, which remain unaffected by the [Tuesday's] decision. Our fight for Ms. Croft is just beginning."
Implications for Dolan
This dismissal marks a significant moment for James Dolan, who has been a prominent figure in the sports world, both as the owner of major sports franchises like the New York Knicks and New York Rangers and as an entertainment mogul. The legal victory allows Dolan to continue his professional endeavors unimpeded by these severe accusations, at least for the time being.
Continued Legal Battles
The dismissal of some claims without prejudice keeps the door open for future legal challenges. Should Croft and her legal team choose to refile the dismissed charges, Dolan may again find himself in the midst of legal scrutiny.
For now, this decision brings a momentary closure to a chapter filled with serious allegations and potential repercussions for one of the most well-known figures in sports and entertainment.