Electronic music artist Bassnectar is seeking to dismiss a sexual abuse lawsuit filed against him, claiming that the accusers lied about their age and that the allegations are false.
The lawsuit, filed in June by two women identified as Jane Doe 1 and Jane Doe 2, accused Bassnectar, whose real name is Lorin Ashton, of sex trafficking and possession of child pornography. The women alleged that he had “solicited underage girls through various means” and that they were victims of his sexual abuse.
In a motion to dismiss filed on Monday, Bassnectar’s legal team argued that the lawsuit should be thrown out because the accusers lied about their age and therefore did not have legal standing to bring the case. The motion also stated that the allegations were false and that the women had no evidence to support their claims.
Bassnectar’s lawyers also pointed out that the women had previously made false statements about their age, including claiming to be over 18 on social media and in interviews. They argued that this showed a pattern of dishonesty and called into question the credibility of their accusations.
The motion to dismiss also addressed the allegations of sex trafficking and child pornography possession, stating that there was no evidence to support these claims and that they were based on “hearsay and speculation.”
Bassnectar’s legal team also argued that the lawsuit was an attempt to extort money from the artist and that the women had no legitimate legal claim against him.
In response to the motion to dismiss, the accusers’ lawyer stated that their age was irrelevant to the case and that they were legally able to bring the lawsuit regardless of their age. They also stated that the women had not lied about their age and that any previous statements were made under duress.
The lawyer also addressed the allegations of sex trafficking and child pornography possession, stating that there was evidence to support these claims and that the women had suffered emotional and psychological harm as a result of Bassnectar’s actions.
The case against Bassnectar has sparked a larger conversation about sexual abuse and misconduct in the electronic music industry. Several other artists have been accused of similar behavior, leading to calls for greater accountability and transparency within the industry.
Bassnectar has denied all allegations of sexual abuse and has maintained his innocence throughout the legal proceedings. The outcome of the motion to dismiss will determine whether the case will move forward or be dismissed.