Deshaun Watson has settled 20 of 24 sexual misbehavior cases filed against him

Deshaun Watson, the Cleveland Browns QB, has struck settlements with 20 of the 24 women who have sued him for sexual assault. The settlements were disclosed by the lawyers representing the 24 women, but no specifics were provided. Watson was accused by the plaintiffs of coercive behaviour and sexual assault during massages.

Tony Buzbee, a lawyer, made the announcement Tuesday morning. Buzbee, who represents Watson’s accusers, stated in a statement that the conditions and amounts of the agreements were secret. And that once the lawsuits were resolved, they would be discharged.

When reached by phone, Watson’s lawyer, Rusty Hardin, claimed he had no comment but would not rule out settlements.

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The first public complaint of sexual assault against Watson during a massage treatment was filed in March 2021. It resulted in a flood of lawsuits brought by other women. Ashley Solis, who brought the first complaint, was one among the four women who still not settled, according to Buzbee.

Watson’s assertions concerned the massage visits he had in 2020 and early 2021. It was during his time with the Houston Texans. After a jury trial in Harris County, Texas, failed to prosecute him on criminal charges, he was transferred to Cleveland in March. Watson received a historic five-year, $230 million deal from the Browns.

However, Watson has been under increased scrutiny in previous weeks, with two more women bringing complaints against him. Buzbee also stated that the Texans will be added as a defendant. It came after a New York Times probe revealed that the team supplied the location for some of Watson’s massage treatments. And signed a nondisclosure agreement with him. Buzbee stated on Tuesday that the Texans were not involved in the agreements.

Buzbee said in his statement that Ashley Solis, the very first woman to falsely humiliate Watson, is one of four women who have not reached a settlement with the Browns quarterback.

“… Ashley Solis is among the story’s heroes. Her case has not been resolved, therefore her tale, as well as the stories of the remaining three courageous women, will continue. In accordance with other docket requirements, I look forward to hearing these matters in due order.”

This is a significant turning point in a tale that began on March 16, 2021, when a massage therapist alleged Watson of sexual harassment during appointments while he was still a player of the Houston Texans.