The Glove is the latest (former) athlete to be accused of violence against a woman.
This time the alleged beating began at a bar in Seattle; but Payton, of course, maintains that the whole incident described to police is a set up for a simple cash grab.
According to the suit, Gary and Trishtan went to a local bar — where she claims Payton shoved her over something she said. Williams did not say exactly what set Payton off.
Eventually, Williams claims they got in a car to leave together and he assaulted her again.
Williams says Payton struck her a third time when they got back to their hotel room.
Now, she’s lawyered up with Gloria Allred — and is seeking a ton of money.
We spoke with Payton’s agent, Aaron Goodwin, who claims the whole thing is nothing more than a shakedown in an effort to get Gary to cut a fat check.
Goodwin also says Williams has changed her story several times — and has “no physical evidence to substantiate these claims.”
“Unfortunately, with the climate of claims against athletes for monetary gains, Mr. Payton is just another victim and will fight this frivolous lawsuit.”
The worst part about any of these stories is when it comes down to one person’s word against the other. If this woman has concrete evidence that Payton was abusive then the courts should act swiftly and just. Until then, its important to remember this country is supposed to support “innocent until proven guilty”.
It’ll be interesting to see if Payton and the woman ultimately decide to settle out of court, where the real money is, they say. If Payton is confident he can prove his innocence, he should decline any would-be settlement and keep his remaining cash in tact.