Country music superstar Garth Brooks has filed a motion to move a sexual assault lawsuit against him to federal court. The lawsuit was initially filed in a state court in Tennessee by a woman identified as Jane Roe, who accused Brooks of assaulting her during a meet and greet event in 2019.
According to court documents, Brooks’ legal team argues that the case should be moved to federal court as the damages sought by the plaintiff exceed the limits set by Tennessee state law. The motion states that the plaintiff is seeking damages in excess of $75,000, which is the minimum amount required for a case to be heard in federal court.
The lawsuit alleges that Brooks grabbed the plaintiff’s hand and kissed her on the lips without her consent during a photo opportunity at the event. The plaintiff claims that she suffered emotional distress and humiliation as a result of the incident.
Brooks has denied the allegations and has maintained his innocence since the lawsuit was first filed. In a statement released by his legal team, Brooks stated, “I have never been accused of anything like this before and I am shocked and saddened by these false accusations. I will vigorously defend myself against these baseless claims.”
The motion to move the case to federal court also argues that the plaintiff’s claims fall under the jurisdiction of federal law, specifically the Federal Tort Claims Act, which covers claims against federal employees for actions taken within the scope of their employment.
This is not the first time that a high-profile sexual assault case has been moved to federal court. In 2019, a similar motion was granted in a case against singer Taylor Swift, who was accused of groping a fan during a meet and greet event. The case was ultimately dismissed by the federal court.
It is unclear at this time if the motion to move the case against Brooks to federal court will be granted. The plaintiff’s legal team has not yet responded to the motion.
Brooks, who is known for hits such as “Friends in Low Places” and “The Dance,” has been a prominent figure in the country music industry for decades. He has sold millions of records and has won numerous awards, including two Grammy Awards and 17 American Music Awards.
The singer has also been a vocal advocate for victims of sexual assault and has used his platform to raise awareness and support for organizations that provide resources and support for survivors.
The outcome of this lawsuit will have significant implications for both Brooks and the plaintiff, as well as for the larger conversation surrounding sexual assault and the legal system. As the case moves forward, it is important to remember that all individuals have the right to a fair and just legal process.
