Florida judge dismisses lawsuit against ex-NFL kicker Brandon McManus
- A Florida judge dismissed a lawsuit against Brandon McManus and the Jaguars, which accused McManus of sexual assault during a flight to London.
- The plaintiffs, flight attendants, alleged inappropriate behavior by McManus, including attempts to kiss and unwanted physical contact.
- The women plan to amend their complaint with their real names and continue pursuing the case despite the dismissal.
A circuit court judge in Florida has dismissed a lawsuit filed by two women against former NFL kicker Brandon McManus and the Jacksonville Jaguars, which alleged sexual assault during a flight to London in September 2023. The judge, Michael S. Sharrit, ruled that the case did not meet the exceptional criteria necessary for the plaintiffs to remain anonymous. The women, identified as 'Jane Doe I' and 'Jane Doe II,' have been given 10 days to amend their complaint using their real names. The lawsuit claimed that McManus attempted to kiss one of the flight attendants and behaved inappropriately by grinding against both women while they were performing their duties. The plaintiffs alleged that the atmosphere on the flight turned into a party, with McManus and other players disregarding the attendants' personal space and safety regulations. They are seeking damages exceeding $1 million. Attorney Tony Buzbee, representing the women, expressed confidence in their willingness to comply with the court's order and emphasized their commitment to pursuing the case. He noted that many defendants in sexual assault cases file motions to compel victims to reveal their identities, hoping they will withdraw their claims. McManus's attorney, Brett Gallaway, dismissed the allegations as baseless and expressed eagerness for McManus to return to the NFL. Following the lawsuit's filing in May, the Washington Commanders released McManus, highlighting the serious implications of the allegations on his career and reputation.