James Dolan faces serious sexual assault allegations in new lawsuit
In a recent development that has sent shockwaves through the sports and entertainment industries, James Dolan, the owner of the New York Knicks, and Harvey Weinstein, the infamous media mogul, are facing serious allegations in a federal lawsuit. The case, brought forward by Kellye Croft, accuses Dolan of sexual assault and alleges that he facilitated a disturbing encounter between Croft and Weinstein, who is currently serving a prison sentence for rape and sexual assault convictions.
7:42 AM EST, January 17, 2024
According to the lawsuit, Dolan, who was 58 at the time of the alleged incidents, used his influence to manipulate and coerce Croft into sexual encounters. The lawsuit describes a situation where Dolan allegedly arranged for Croft to meet Weinstein in what appeared to be a chance encounter in a hotel elevator in early 2014. This meeting led to Weinstein offering Croft work opportunities in the film industry, followed by an alleged assault in a hotel room. When Croft reported the incident to Dolan, he reportedly showed no surprise and offered no assistance in reporting the assault to the police.
Dolan's attorney has vehemently denied the allegations, stating that there is compelling evidence to refute the claims and expressing confidence in proving their position in court. Similarly, Weinstein's attorney has dismissed the allegations as meritless. The lawsuit has drawn attention due to Dolan's high-profile position as the executive chairman of Madison Square Garden Sports Corp, overseeing significant sports teams like the NBA's Knicks and NHL's Rangers. The Madison Square Garden organization has faced multiple lawsuits under Dolan's ownership, including a notable case involving former team executive Anucha Browne Sanders, who was awarded $11.6 million in a sexual harassment suit.
As the case unfolds, it promises to be a complex and closely watched legal battle involving high-profile figures in sports and entertainment. The allegations, if proven, could have significant ramifications for both Dolan and Weinstein and possibly for the broader industries they represent.
