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D.J. Bien-AimeESPN
HOUSTON — Ashley Solis, Attorney Tony Buzbee, and Tony Buzbee ostracized NFL on Thursday to get the initial ruling. Cleveland Browns quarterback Deshaun WatsonAfter sexual misconduct allegations, a member of the league is subject to discipline.
Buzbee, Solis, who were first women to sue Watson for damages, held a press conference at Chase Tower Center, Houston. Buzbee could not speak about the 30 settlements between his client and the Houston Texans Solis was critical of the franchise’s role in the allegations. the six-game suspension Watson was handed by Sue L. Robinson, a disciplinary officer.
Solis stated that the NFL’s actions to the little girls who suffered at the hands someone believed to be in power was not a big deal. They don’t seem to care. Tough s —. They’re my inspiration.”
Solis claims that the whole process of the civil suit was emotionally and mentally draining. Solis also stated that she received “multiple death threats” and that angry people approached her publically.
Buzbee had hoped Watson’s initial suspension would be mild, but he was still disappointed by Robinson’s decision.
“We didn’t anticipate much from the NFL Investigation. Buzbee stated, “We never expected much out of their flawed process.” “But even when it’s clear that you’re going be slapped in front of your face? The slap hurts and still stinks. The NFL’s final results were presented to us. I asked each client to weigh-in. I tried to get to know each client to hear their opinions. It’s like a kiss on the cheek.
Robinson submitted a 16-page explanation Monday of why she had issued a six game suspension. It stated that “the NFL had to prove by a preponderance the evidence that Mr. Watson was involved in sexual assault (as defined in the NFL) against four therapists named in the Report.”
Robinson’s suspension of six games by the NFL was overturned on Wednesday. The NFL is now aggressively trying for a longer suspension of Watson of one year.
The NFL Players Association received notice that the NFL was planning to appeal the initial ruling.
Roger Goodell, the NFL commissioner, has appointed Peter C. Harvey, the former New Jersey Attorney General to hear the appeal against the disciplinary decision regarding Watson.
Watson’s team and the NFLPA have until Friday to respond to the appeal brief. The league will then issue a ruling.
Buzbee concluded his news conference expressing hope that the NFL would impose a more severe punishment.
“We are present today with a message to NFL. This message is important and hopefully will be clear. Buzbee stated, “Every victim of sexual abuse is watching Robert Goodell & the NFL right now.” “And the idea that Mr. Goodell would hand it over to an independent party, we don’t buy it. What are you going to do Mr. Goodell? It’s never too late for you to do the right things. This is what these women and others watching are expecting.