Le’Veon Bell Faces $25 Million Judgment in Sexual Assault Lawsuit

Le’Veon Bell Faces $25 Million Judgment in Sexual Assault Lawsuit

A Franklin County, Ohio jury has awarded $25 million to a cousin of former NFL star Le’Veon Bell. She alleges that Bell sexually assaulted her over a span of nearly a decade, starting from her childhood.

The lawsuit, filed in March 2024, claims that Bell engaged in incestuous relations without her consent when she was just six years old. This alleged abuse reportedly continued until she turned 18 in 2017.

According to court documents obtained by TMZ, the woman received a significant monetary judgment two weeks ago in light of these allegations.

Bell’s Denial and Legal Response

Bell’s attorney, Thomas W. Shaffer, issued a strong statement refuting the allegations against his client. Shaffer argues that Bell had never been served with any legal documents related to this civil complaint.

“My client adamantly denies any and all allegations that have been lodged against him,” Shaffer stated. “The default judgment was granted based on violations of his Fifth Amendment rights due process for failing to be served.”

Shaffer also mentioned that they are in the process of filing a motion to open and reverse the default judgment. He emphasized that the merits of the case have not been litigated in court.

Further Statements from Bell

In a recent broadcast on the streaming platform Twitch, Bell reiterated his innocence and expressed confusion regarding the allegations. He mentioned that he only learned of the lawsuit shortly before the story broke, revealing that TMZ contacted him for comments.

“The same cousin who attended all my football games is making these claims,” Bell stated, questioning the plausibility of the accusations against him. “Do you think I need to force myself upon a woman? I don’t.”

Bell further defended himself by asserting that he has never pushed anyone to engage in acts against their will. He claimed to have had many romantic encounters, stating, “I’ve never forced myself on nobody. I got my pick of the litter.”

Bell’s remarks highlighted his frustration with the situation, as he called the allegations ridiculous and offensive, particularly given their family ties.

Impact on Family Relations

According to reports, this lawsuit has also impacted other members of Bell’s family. His younger brother, La’Vonte, has reportedly been ordered to pay $11 million to the same cousin, raising concerns about the ongoing turmoil within the family.

These developments demonstrate the significant emotional and financial toll these allegations can have not only on Le’Veon Bell but also on other family members involved. The fallout may raise questions regarding family dynamics and reputations in the public eye.

Public Reaction and Future Implications

The public reaction to these allegations has been intense, as fans and critics alike weigh in on social media platforms. Many are divided, with discussions about the broader implications for domestic violence and sexual assault cases in the sports industry.

As this case unfolds, it may prompt further scrutiny into how such allegations are handled legally and socially. The discourse surrounding accountability for public figures is pivotal, especially as similar cases emerge within the sports community.

Looking Forward

As Le’Veon Bell prepares to challenge the court’s decision, the upcoming legal proceedings will likely attract significant media attention. The outcome may have far-reaching consequences, not only for Bell’s future but also for others who report incidents of sexual violence.

Moreover, the case underscores the need for a robust legal framework that addresses issues of consent and the protection of victims, particularly in high-profile cases involving public figures.

Bell’s commitment to contesting this judgment indicates he plans to fight back against the allegations fiercely. This case serves as a reminder of the complexities involved in addressing sexual assault claims, particularly when the accused holds significant public stature.

The legal battle may also serve as a catalyst for further discussion about family relationships, societal expectations, and individual accountability. All eyes will remain on the upcoming developments as they unfold, revealing the intricate balance between personal and public narratives in the realm of sports and legal matters.