Months after Dallas police decided not to pursue charges, a Collin County judge has cleared Dak Prescott of all civil claims related to the sexual assault allegations against him. These claims, dating back to 2017, have been a point of contention and media scrutiny for the high-profile athlete.
The Allegations and Initial Proceedings
In 2017, Prescott faced serious allegations of sexual assault from an accuser who initially sought $100 million in exchange for not taking the matter to the police. This significant development came to a head in March when the accuser filed a report with the Dallas Police Department, forcing a deeper investigation into the matter.
Prescott took immediate legal action, filing both a civil lawsuit and a criminal report against the accuser. The drama continued to unfold in April as the accuser’s attorney dropped a Dallas County lawsuit only to refile a similar case in Collin County. It wasn't until June that Judge Angela Tucker dismissed the accuser’s claims, marking a turning point in the complicated legal battle.
Legal Developments and Statements
Levi G. McCathern, Prescott's attorney, was outspoken about the situation, stating, "As we knew they would, they found nothing in their extensive exploration of the facts that would support a criminal prosecution." He highlighted the ongoing attempts by the accuser and her legal team to perpetuate what he referred to as an "extortion plot" against Prescott.
Prescott also remained firm in his stance. "I know the truth, I'm confident in what we filed, very confident in what we filed," he said. His statements reflected a determined and resolute approach to clearing his name and seeking justice.
Impact on Prescott and His Career
The impact of these allegations extends beyond the legal realm. Prescott is entering the final season of a substantial four-year, $160 million contract in 2024, which puts his public image and professional future under intense scrutiny.
McCathern emphasized the damaging effects of false accusations, saying, "These ploys distract from the trauma of legitimate sexual assault survivors and undermine the progress that our society has made in supporting them." He further added, "We are confident that at the end of law enforcement's investigation into the extortion case that they will find the accuser and her attorneys just as guilty as Dak is innocent."
Ongoing Legal Battle
Despite Judge Tucker's dismissal in June, the legal battle is far from over. Prescott has filed a civil lawsuit seeking over $1 million, citing extortion. The accuser’s attorney, aiming to keep legal doors open, filed a motion for a "non-suit without prejudice," allowing the possibility of refiling the case in Dallas County.
McCathern assured the public that Prescott has never engaged in nonconsensual sexual conduct, stating, "To be clear, Mr. Prescott has never engaged in any nonconsensual, sexual conduct with anyone. Lies hurt. Especially, malicious lies. We will not allow the Defendant and her legal team to profit from this attempt to extort millions from Mr. Prescott."
The Road Ahead
As the situation continues to develop, a hearing in September will determine if further legal action against the accuser is necessary. This hearing will be a critical moment in the ongoing saga, potentially influencing both legal outcomes and public opinion.
Prescott, now a new father, is known for his philanthropic efforts and involvement in the community. His attorney reiterated Prescott's empathy for survivors of sexual assault: "Mr. Prescott -- a new father to a baby girl -- has great empathy for survivors of sexual assault." This statement underscores the broader impact of such allegations and the importance of addressing them with the seriousness they deserve.
As this complex legal battle continues to unfold, both Prescott and his legal team remain determined to clear his name and bring the truth to light. The sports world and general public alike watch closely, awaiting further developments in this high-stakes case.