According to Deshaun Watson’s lawyer Rusty Hardin, it is illegal in Texas for accusers to not be publicly identified.
In this statement to BSO, he explains why Watson can’t defend himself unless he knows the names of his accusers.
We have said this before and we want to say it again: Deshaun did not force, coerce or intimidate anyone to do anything against their will. When we asked Mr. Buzbee to identify his clients weeks ago, he refused and told us to file a motion. Today we filed that motion. As discussed in our filing, Mr. Buzbee’s use of anonymous lawsuits violates Texas law and the basic concept of fairness.
It is clear that, for Mr. Buzbee, this case has never been about seeking justice in a courtroom, but destroying Deshaun’s reputation to enhance his own public profile and enrich himself.
While I understand that anonymity often is used as a shield for victims, Mr. Buzbee is using it as a sword. While shielding his clients from public scrutiny, Mr. Buzbee continues to use their anonymous allegations to destroy Mr. Watson. This is simply not right. And we look forward to resolving these matters in court.
This case has become as much about Hardin and Buzbee as it is about Watson and his accusers.
To date, three accusers have come forward publicly.
A judge will decide if the rest will have to put their name out publicly. Hardin may be hoping that the threat of the public knowing who they are will make them reconsider their lawsuit.
Ashley Solis who went public has been run off social media by Deshaun Watson fans.
Flip the page for the court doc.