Months after the Dallas Police Department declined to pursue charges, a Collin County judge has now exonerated Dak Prescott of all civil claims related to sexual assault allegations. The allegations date back to 2017 when Prescott faced accusations that shook the NFL community and drew widespread public attention.
The accuser initially sought a staggering $100 million in exchange for not reporting the matter to law enforcement. It wasn't until March that she finally filed a report with the Dallas Police Department. Not long after, Prescott fought back, filing both a civil lawsuit and a criminal report against the accuser, a move that signaled his determination to clear his name.
In an unexpected twist, the accuser’s attorney dismissed a concurrent lawsuit in Dallas County only to refile it in Collin County, adding another layer of legal complexity. However, the tides turned in June when Judge Angela Tucker dismissed the accuser’s claims, finding insufficient evidence to support the allegations. The Dallas Police Department's investigation had also found no grounds for a criminal prosecution, much to Prescott's relief.
Ongoing Legal Battles
Despite these developments, the legal battle wages on. Prescott has filed a civil lawsuit seeking over $1 million, accusing the accuser of extortion. Notably, in January, the accuser’s attorney sent a letter suggesting she would retract her pursuit of criminal charges in return for a $100 million settlement. This attempt at resolution only fueled Prescott’s resolve to see the matter adjudicated in court.
Prescott's attorney, Levi G. McCathern, has been particularly outspoken on the subject. "As we knew they would, they found nothing in their extensive exploration of the facts that would support a criminal prosecution," McCathern noted, underscoring the meritless nature of the accusations. He continued, "The original lies by [the accuser], her team, and their recent failed attempt to sue him civilly are all just a continuation of their extortion plot against Dak."
Impact on Reputation
While this legal drama unfolds, Prescott is entering the final season of a lucrative four-year, $160 million contract. The shadow of these allegations has undoubtedly placed a strain on his professional life and public image. Yet, he remains steadfast. "I know the truth, I'm confident in what we filed, very confident in what we filed,” Prescott stated, emphasizing his belief in the justice system.
Prescott has also shown empathy amidst his personal ordeal. "Mr. Prescott -- a new father to a baby girl -- has great empathy for survivors of sexual assault," McCathern mentioned. This ordeal has provided a lens through which Prescott has expressed his support for genuine victims. "These ploys distract from the trauma of legitimate sexual assault survivors and undermine the progress that our society has made in supporting them," McCathern said, highlighting the broader impact of false accusations.
Future Court Actions
The courtroom battles are far from over, with another hearing set for September to determine the necessity of further legal action against the accuser. Prescott’s lawsuit and the accusations of extortion against the accuser are set to continue head-to-head in civil court in Collin County. Additionally, the accuser’s decision to motion for a non-suit without prejudice means she retains the option to refile her case in Dallas County.
Standing Firm
Despite the serious allegations, the legal victories have given Prescott a sense of vindication. "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,” McCathern vehemently stated.
These unresolved issues might continue to swirl around Prescott, but his focus remains firm as he approaches the new NFL season. Persistent and resolute, Prescott stands ready to confront any further legal challenges, confident in the truth and in the justice of his cause.