Photo Credit: Charles LeClaire/USA TODAY
After coming under intense scrutiny the past year for his alleged involvement in the sexual assault of a Florida State student, it is Jameis Winston’s turn to point the finger. After state attorney William Meggs declined to press charges against Winston, his accuser filed a lawsuit against the rookie quarterback. Winston has now filed a countersuit against the woman claiming her false statements have hurt him financially by lowering his endorsement deals.
Winston is seeking $75,000 in actual damages and an amount to be determined later in punitive damages. “She has mounted a false and vicious media campaign to vilify Mr. Winston with the objective of getting him to pay her to go away. Ms. Kinsman is motivated by the most insidious objectives — greed,” the counterclaim said. The counterclaim states that her “claims” have caused a media circus around Winston.
Winston’s attorneys, John F. Myers and David Cornwell Sr., are sticking to the story supported by two of Winston’s teammates that their client had consensual sexual relations with his accuser. The woman’s attorney, John Clune, stated last month, “Erica hopes to show other survivors the strength and empowerment that can come from refusing to stay silent no matter what forces are against you. Jameis Winston in contrast has proven time and time again to be an entitled athlete who believes he can take what he wants.” Winston recently signed his rookie contract for four years worth $25.35 million with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
