Dismissal of Sexual Assault Case Against NFL Kicker Raises Questions About Victim Anonymity

In a recent ruling, a Florida judge has dismissed a sexual assault case against NFL kicker Brandon McManus, citing the plaintiffs' use of pseudonyms as not meeting the criteria for anonymity. The decision has sparked debate about the importance of victim anonymity in such cases.

A Florida judge has dismissed a sexual assault case against NFL kicker Brandon McManus, citing the plaintiffs' use of pseudonyms as not meeting the criteria for anonymity. The decision has sparked debate about the importance of victim anonymity in such cases.

Dismissal of Sexual Assault Case Against NFL Kicker Raises Questions About Victim Anonymity

The two plaintiffs, who used the pseudonyms "Jane Doe I" and "Jane Doe II," alleged that McManus sexually assaulted them on a team plane to London. Judge Michael S. Sharrit ruled that the use of pseudonyms did not meet the "exceptional case" criteria required to warrant party anonymity under Florida law.

"Fairness requires Plaintiffs be prepared to stand behind their charges publicly in the same way Defendant McManus must openly refute them," Judge Sharrit wrote in his ruling.

Dismissal of Sexual Assault Case Against NFL Kicker Raises Questions About Victim Anonymity

The plaintiffs' attorney, Tony Buzbee, said in a statement that he anticipated the ruling but that the women "have no intention to run and hide."

"We look forward to continuing to pursue this important case," Buzbee said.

Dismissal of Sexual Assault Case Against NFL Kicker Raises Questions About Victim Anonymity

The alleged incident occurred while McManus was a member of the Jacksonville Jaguars. The suit alleges that McManus rubbed and grinded himself against the plaintiffs during the flight, which "quickly turned into a party," with McManus throwing $100 bills at flight attendants in exchange for dancing inappropriately for him.

According to the suit, McManus "smirked and walked away" after one of the plaintiffs confronted him. The other plaintiff alleges that one of McManus' teammates looked ashamed of his behavior when she made eye contact with him during the assault.

The Washington Commanders released McManus shortly after the suit was filed. He remains a free agent.

The dismissal of the case has raised questions about the importance of victim anonymity in sexual assault cases. Some argue that anonymity is essential to protect victims from further trauma and retaliation, while others contend that it can make it more difficult for defendants to defend themselves.

In this case, Judge Sharrit ruled that the plaintiffs had not met the burden of showing that they would suffer "irreparable harm" if their identities were revealed. He also noted that McManus has a strong interest in defending himself against the allegations.

The case is likely to be appealed, and the issue of victim anonymity is likely to continue to be debated in the courts.