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If there is any doubt (and it should not have been) about Texan quarterback Deshaun Watson’s first substantive response to the civil charges against him, there should be nothing now. His lawyer, Rusty Hardin, admits that Watson and his lawyers believe the women suing Watson are lying.
“Today we have answered the lawsuits against Deshaun Watson,” Hardin said in a statement. “Mr Watson was adamant that he had not acted improperly and we strongly believe him. Therefore, the answer to whether we say that all 22 plaintiffs are lying about the allegations of sexual misconduct by Mr Watson is a resounding yes. .
“We and Mr. Watson takes the allegations of sexual misconduct against women very seriously, as we should all do. We have been waiting to respond to the numerous allegations made by Mr. Buzbee and his clients, until we could investigate responsibly. In the few days since the names of his accused were made public, as required by Texas law, we’ve discovered a deluge of false accusations.
‘Only two of these 22 lawsuits allege forced sexual activity, which Mr. Watson strongly denies. In the case of Sheneé Lawson, her business manager told Mr. Watson’s marketing manager acknowledges that the contact is consensus, but she still wants money. And in the case of Marchelle Davis, witnesses testify that Ms. Davis was happy and excited after her Mr. Watson massaged. She lied about being alone at the spa. She knew that there was a security guard present at all times when Mr. Watson was there. She further told witnesses that Mr. Watson would have paid her if she had supported him instead of suing him.
‘I hope everyone will investigate these allegations fairly and judiciously as we move forward in these matters. We certainly welcome everyone with relevant information to contact us. We do not expect to make any other comments today. The next hearing in this case is scheduled for Thursday afternoon. ”
At a certain time, a schedule order will be introduced in these cases, setting out different dates and deadlines regarding the pre-trial activities during which the parties will look for evidence to support and / or refute the different claims.
A settlement is possible at any time. Today’s activities on behalf of Watson were quite possibly meant to push the plaintiffs to come to the table.