Nevada Supreme Court Rules in Favor of Nick Carter
LAS VEGAS (KLAS) — In a groundbreaking decision, the Nevada Supreme Court has ruled in favor of Nick Carter from the Backstreet Boys in a high-profile sex assault lawsuit. The ruling, handed down on Tuesday, Nov. 27, allows Nick Carter to proceed with his countersuit against a woman who accused him of sexually assaulting her after a concert in 2001.
Background of the Lawsuit
The legal battle between Nick Carter and the woman, Shannon “Shay” Ruth, began when Ruth was part of a 2022 lawsuit alleging that Carter had sexually assaulted several young women in the early 2000s. Ruth specifically claimed that Carter, who was 21 at the time, gave her alcohol, raped her, and threatened her if she spoke out. However, Carter vehemently denied these accusations.
Legal Proceedings
In response to the allegations, Nick Carter filed a countersuit against Ruth and another woman named Melissa Schuman, who also claimed he assaulted her in the early 2000s. Despite the statute of limitations expiring in Schuman’s case before charges could be filed, Carter pursued legal action against both women for defamation, civil conspiracy, abuse of process, and intentional interference with contractual relations.
Nevada Supreme Court Decision
Following a lengthy legal battle, the Nevada Supreme Court affirmed Judge Nancy Allf’s decision to deny Ruth’s anti-SLAPP motion, allowing Carter to proceed with his countersuit. The court based its decision on the compelling evidence presented by Carter, including witness affidavits that contradicted Ruth’s account of the alleged assault.
Expert Witness Testimony
Key affidavits submitted by Carter included witness statements confirming that after the concert in question, the band promptly left the venue without engaging in any autograph signings. Additionally, affidavits from the band’s security detail highlighted the strict security protocols in place, making it virtually impossible for any fan to be alone with a band member on their tour bus.
In a surprising turn of events, Ruth’s close friend even testified that Ruth may not have even attended the concert in question, further undermining the credibility of her claims. The Supreme Court ruling emphasized that Carter’s evidence, if believed, convincingly refuted Ruth’s allegations of sexual assault.
As the legal battle continues, the Supreme Court’s decision sets a significant precedent for similar cases involving public figures and allegations of sexual misconduct. The outcome of Schuman’s appeal is eagerly awaited, with implications that could reverberate throughout the entertainment industry.
In conclusion, the Nevada Supreme Court’s ruling in favor of Nick Carter marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing legal saga, shedding light on the complexities of sexual assault allegations and the importance of evidence in determining the truth.
