A federal judge has denied Jay-Z’s motion to dismiss a lawsuit alleging he sexually assaulted a 13-year-old girl in 2000. The lawsuit, filed in October 2024, also names Sean “Diddy” Combs as a defendant.
Details of the Allegations
The plaintiff alleges that after attending an after-party following the MTV Video Music Awards in 2000, she was given a drink that caused her to feel lightheaded, after which she was sexually assaulted by both Jay-Z and Combs. She is seeking unspecified damages for the alleged assault.
Defense’s Position
Jay-Z’s legal team, led by attorney Alex Spiro, has denied the allegations, describing them as “provably demonstrably false.” Spiro points to inconsistencies in the accuser’s timeline and claims, including the existence of a jumbotron outside the awards venue and the presence of certain individuals at the event.
Judge’s Ruling
Despite the defense’s arguments, Judge Analisa Torres criticized the legal tactics employed by Jay-Z’s team and allowed the case to proceed, emphasizing the need for factual disputes to be resolved in court.
Implications for the Music Industry
This case adds to the growing list of legal challenges faced by prominent figures in the music industry, highlighting ongoing concerns about accountability and conduct within the entertainment sector.
