Judge Dismisses Sexual Assault Lawsuit Against Former Def Jam President Kevin Liles

A federal judge has dismissed a sexual assault lawsuit against Kevin Liles. The former Def Jam president was accused by a former assistant. The ruling was issued on Monday.

The judge found the case was barred by a prior confidential settlement. The plaintiff had reached this agreement with Universal Music Group nearly two decades ago. This decision ends the recent legal action.

Prior Settlement Agreement Bars New Claims

According to the ruling, the plaintiff received a $47,500 settlement in 2005. This was after she filed a complaint with the New York State Division of Human Rights. That initial complaint alleged discrimination and harassment.

Judge Naomi Reice Buchwald stated the agreement’s language was broad. It covered Liles as a releasee. The settlement discharged “any and all” claims known at the time.

The recent lawsuit claimed Liles raped the woman in 2002. It alleged he made inappropriate advances. Liles has consistently denied all allegations.

Legal Arguments and Case Impact

The plaintiff’s lawyers argued their client saw the 2005 payment as a severance. They claimed she did not believe it covered the assault allegations. The judge did not find this argument persuasive.

Liles’ legal team accused the plaintiff of seeking to extort a settlement. They stated the lawsuit was an attempt to generate negative publicity. Liles had vowed to clear his name and pursue defamation claims.

This ruling underscores the powerful legal finality of settlement agreements. It prevents the re-litigation of issues from a settled dispute. The case is now formally closed.

The dismissal of the Kevin Liles lawsuit highlights the enduring power of confidential settlements in legal disputes. This ruling brings a definitive end to this particular case, though the broader conversation continues.

Info at your fingertips

What was the Kevin Liles lawsuit about?

A former assistant sued the ex-Def Jam president. She alleged sexual assault and rape from 2002. Liles denied all accusations.

Why was the lawsuit dismissed?

The judge ruled a 2005 settlement barred the new claims. The plaintiff had already received a payment from Universal Music Group. The agreement covered the released parties, including Liles.

How much was the original settlement?

The confidential agreement from 2005 was for $47,500. This settled the woman’s initial human rights complaint. It was related to her employment termination.

What did Kevin Liles say about the allegations?

Liles called the claims “outrageous.” He vehemently denied any wrongdoing. His lawyers suggested the suit was an attempt to extort him.

Can the plaintiff appeal this decision?

It is possible to file an appeal after a dismissal. The plaintiff’s lawyers have not yet commented. The legal path forward is now uncertain.