Rusty Hardin, the defense attorney in this case, requested that depositions be held in the case delayed until the end of the criminal investigation into the allegations against Watson.
Hardin stated that Houston police had already sent their findings to Harris County District Attorney’s Office. He believed a grand jury could decide the case by April 1. Watson was the subject of eight criminal complaints. The FBI continues to review the allegations.
“I know Deshaun is willing to testify and give depositions. Hardin stated that he was his lawyer and said it would be insane to let him testify until we know the outcome on the criminal side.
The 22 women allege that Watson exposed himself to them, touched them with his penis, or kissed them during massage appointments.
Watson and his lawyers denied the allegations. Watson’s lawyers claim that “some sexual activity” occurred during certain appointments, but that he never coerced anyone.
Tony Buzbee (the attorney representing the 22 women) argued that Watson should be deposed in accordance with a set schedule because most of the women had already given their depositions. Watson’s depositions will begin on Thursday, according to a court order.
Buzbee stated, “You would expect that someone whose legal team has called all these women liars and has criticized me loudly would be willing to speak publicly under oath like he originally agreed.” He ducks for cover and flees.”
Judge Rabeea Colllier ruled that Watson’s lawyers can depose women who have not filed a criminal complaint. The rest of the cases will need to wait until April 1.
Buzbee stated that he expected Watson to be deposed for nine of the women within ten days.
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Hardin stated that while the criminal investigation is ongoing, it was “only fair” to wait and watch for any charges to be brought against Watson before he gives a deposition.
“I hope and trust that the public will listen when we say that he did not do what he was accused of.” Hardin stated that he is hopeful and believes that a grand jury will find the right conclusion.
Watson’s lawyers sought to balance Watson’s defense with condemning women’s sexual violence.
Watson’s lawyers have called the lawsuits against them a “money grab” and argued that all 22 women who filed suit were lying. This strategy is based on long-used tropes meant to minimize such accusations. Advocates and experts agree with this claim. Buzbee said that some of his clients have been subject to criticism and even death threats.
The future of Watson with the Texans is still unclear.
Watson requested to be traded even before the lawsuits were filed in March. Watson was kept out of last season’s games by the trade request and the lawsuits.
