HOUSTON – Four more lawsuits have been filed against Houston Texans quarterback Deshaun Watson, accusing him of misconduct and sexual assault similar to the previous three that were filed.
This brings to a total of seven lawsuits against Watson by Houston attorney Tony Buzbee, who said on Instagram that there are a total of nine cases against Watson. Buzbee told ESPN on Thursday in a text message that his office had been in contact with police and that he would provide information to police about all nine women who intend to sue Watson.
Houston police declined to comment on ESPN’s investigation. A spokesman for Harris County Attorney’s Office told ESPN on Thursday that no law enforcement agency had yet provided information to the DA’s office about Watson’s allegations.
Buzbee will address Houston media on Friday afternoon when he says he will provide information about the seven lawsuits filed and provide copies of several lawsuits and messages.
Following Buzbee’s announcement of the first trial on Tuesday, Watson responded on Twitter, saying he had rejected “a six-digit request for settlement” and that it was “clearing my name and I look forward to doing so.” At the time of his statement, Watson said he did not see the first trial.
“I have never treated a woman with anything other than the utmost respect,” Watson said in a statement.
NFL spokesman Brian McCarthy said Thursday that “the issue is being examined” by the league’s personal conduct policy, and Texans said they will remain in close contact with the NFL during the league’s investigation.
The seven lawsuits filed so far describe a pattern of sexual assault against a massage therapist. While six lawsuits claim that these were unique encounters with Watson, one woman claims she was sexually assaulted by Watson on several occasions. The trial says that the first massage was booked through the spa where the licensed beautician worked. The other six lawsuits claim that Watson first asked about massage through direct messages on Instagram.
Three of the four lawsuits filed Thursday night accuse him of inadequate contact; the fourth said he tried to kiss a woman.
“Watson’s behavior is part of a disturbing pattern of predation for vulnerable women,” reads the fourth lawsuit.
Watson’s agent, David Mulugheta, posted on Twitter on Friday.
“Sexual assault is real. The victims should be heard, the criminals prosecuted,” Mulugheta posted on Friday. “Individuals fabricate stories in search of financial gain often. Their victims should be heard, and those criminals will be prosecuted. I simply hope we keep the same energy with the truth.”
Texans said again on Thursday that they were aware of the issue.
“The NFL has informed us [Thursday] that they will conduct an investigation into the allegations made in the civil lawsuits filed against Deshaun Watson, “the team said.” We will stay in close contact with the league as they do. We continue to take this and all issues involving anyone in the Houston Texans seriously. We do not anticipate making any further statements until the end of the NFL investigation. “