Kaylah Walton
A recent federal lawsuit has been dismissed by a U.S. district judge. The suit was initiated by Kellye Croft against James Dolan, owner of the New York Knicks, and former film producer Harvey Weinstein.
Croft alleged that Dolan sexually assaulted her almost ten years ago and that he arranged a meeting with Weinstein, who she claims also assaulted her.
Insufficient Evidence
The case was dismissed by Judge Percy Anderson, who stated that Croft failed to provide adequate evidence to establish a commercial sex act, a requirement under the federal Trafficking Victims Protection Reauthorization Act.
The judge also refused to consider state-level claims, which included Dolan’s alleged sexual battery and facilitating sexual assault, along with Croft’s claims of sexual assault and attempted rape against Weinstein.
Lawyers representing Croft expressed disappointment, arguing that the interpretation of the law by the court weakens protection for survivors of sex trafficking.
“The plaintiff continues to assume that payments received were linked to her alleged sexual affiliation with Dolan rather than for her legitimate work as a masseuse during a tour,” the judge noted.
A representative for Dolan described the lawsuit as an unfounded attack, while Weinstein’s legal team also denied the allegations.
Croft, who worked as a massage therapist for The Eagles’ tour in 2013, accused Dolan of coercing her into sexual scenarios and facilitating a meeting with Weinstein, during which she claims she was assaulted. Croft chose to reveal her identity in order to share her experiences publicly.
“We respectfully disagree with the decision made by the District Court, which we believe misinterpreted the federal sex trafficking statute and failed to uphold vital protections for victims,” stated attorneys Kevin Mintzer and Meredith Firetog. “We intend to appeal this ruling and are confident that the appellate court will rectify this issue.”
