The attorney representing the women who have filed sexual misconduct lawsuits against Houston Texans quarterback Deshaun Watson says the total number of women bringing allegation against Watson has grown to nine, according to TMZ Sports.
As women continue to come forward, Watson's agent, David Mulugheta, voiced support for the quarterback via social media on Friday, saying, "Individuals fabricate stories in pursuit of financial gain often."
However, as ESPN's Dan Murphy points out, Mulugheta's statement saying that women fabricate stories for financial gain has been proven false in the past.
"Individuals fabricate stories in pursuit of financial gain often."
— Dan Murphy (@DanMurphyESPN) March 19, 2021
This is proven to be false. It's harmful rhetoric when it comes to reporting abuse. It discourages victims from reporting.
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There's nothing wrong with Mulugheta showing support for Watson, but he seems to be misinformed about sexual assault in the United States. Most sexual assaults are not reported, and many women are afraid to speak up if they are victims of sexual misconduct.
Watson himself denied the sexual assault allegations in a social media post earlier this week, saying, "I have never treated any woman with anything other than the utmost respect."
— Deshaun Watson (@deshaunwatson) March 17, 2021
The NFL has opened an investigation into the allegations against Watson. Regardless of a criminal conviction or investigation, the NFL can suspend him if it finds he violated the league's personal conduct policy, according to the NFL website.
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