A federal lawsuit has been filed against New York Knicks owner James Dolan accusing him of sexually assaulting Kellye Croft, a massage therapist, a decade ago according to the report of CNBC. The lawsuit claims Dolan used his influence during a tour with his band to pressure Croft into a sexual relationship. Shockingly, it alleges Dolan orchestrated a meeting with now-imprisoned film producer Harvey Weinstein, leading to Croft’s alleged sexual assault.
Photo from CNBC
Details of Allegations
The lawsuit, filed in Los Angeles, reveals that Dolan’s band, JD & The Straight Shot, toured with The Eagles in 2013 when the alleged incidents occurred. Croft, 27 at the time, accuses Dolan of manipulating her during the tour and setting up the encounter with Weinstein who offered her work on film sets.
Croft claims Dolan was aware of Weinstein’s misconduct but did not offer support when informed of the assault. Dolan, who was briefly on Weinstein’s film company board, faces allegations from a former board lawsuit that accused him of being aware of Weinstein’s actions.
Dolan’s lawyer denies the allegations, emphasizing the existence of evidence supporting their position. The controversy unfolds against the backdrop of Dolan’s ownership history, including past legal battles involving sexual harassment claims and conflicts with former team executives and players.
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NBA Commissioner’s Response
NBA Commissioner Adam Silver refrains from commenting specifically on the lawsuit but acknowledges awareness of news stories. Silver, with broad powers to act in cases of wrongdoing, awaits more information before making a statement.
Weinstein, currently serving a prison sentence, denies Croft’s allegations through his lawyer. The Madison Square Garden organization, owned by Dolan, has faced multiple lawsuits, with past legal battles and controversies linked to Dolan’s decisions and ownership style.
As Croft seeks a jury trial and unspecified damages, the lawsuit puts the spotlight on the intersection of sports, entertainment, and legal issues, adding another layer of complexity to Dolan’s tenure as an NBA team owner.
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