Unveiling the Dark Truths: Kellye Croft’s Lawsuit Against James Dolan and Harvey Weinstein

A Decade-Long Saga of Abuse and Manipulation

In a shocking turn of events, Kellye Croft, a licensed massage therapist, has stepped forward with disturbing allegations of sexual assault and exploitation against prominent figures James Dolan, owner of the New York Knicks, and the infamous film producer Harvey Weinstein. The lawsuit, filed in Los Angeles in 2024, unveils a decade-long saga of abuse and manipulation that has left Croft traumatized and seeking justice.

2013: Manipulation and Pressure on Tour

Croft’s ordeal began in 2013 when she was working as a massage therapist on a tour for The Eagles. Dolan’s band, JD & The Straight Shot, opened for the rock band. According to the lawsuit, Dolan, then 58, allegedly abused his power and influence on the tour to repeatedly manipulate and pressure Croft “to submit to sex with him.”

Despite the lack of interest from other tour members in massage appointments, Dolan allegedly flew Croft to Los Angeles for a seemingly unnecessary massage session. During this encounter, Dolan is accused of sexually exploiting Croft, further escalating the pattern of abuse.

Orchestrated Meeting with Harvey Weinstein

In a calculated move, Dolan allegedly orchestrated a seemingly random meeting between Croft and Weinstein, a close friend of his, in a hotel elevator in early 2014. Weinstein, known for his predatory behavior, offered Croft opportunities to work on film sets. However, this meeting took a sinister turn when Weinstein changed into a loosely tied bathrobe in his suite and asked Croft for a massage.

Croft, feeling uncomfortable, left the suite, only to be followed by Weinstein, still in the bathrobe. The lawsuit alleges that Weinstein forced his way into Croft’s hotel room and subjected her to sexual assault.

Dolan’s Dismissive Response

When Croft informed Dolan about the alleged attack, he allegedly showed no surprise and offered no support or assistance in reporting the assault to the police. Croft alleges that Dolan was aware of Weinstein’s misconduct toward women and even made dismissive remarks, stating that “we all know” Weinstein “has problems.”

Seeking Accountability and Justice

Croft’s lawsuit seeks a jury trial and unspecified damages for the profound trauma she has endured as a result of the alleged actions of Dolan and Weinstein. She courageously came forward to seek accountability and justice, hoping to find closure and address the lasting impact of these traumatic events.

Dolan’s Defense and Ongoing Legal Battles

Dolan’s attorney, E. Danya Perry, has vehemently denied the allegations, calling them “an act of retaliation” by Croft’s attorney, Douglas Wigdor. Wigdor has been involved in multiple lawsuits against Weinstein and Dolan, including a 2017 case where Dolan was named in a suit alleging that members of the board were aware of Weinstein’s conduct toward women but failed to take action.

The Madison Square Garden organization has faced several lawsuits under Dolan’s ownership, notably the sexual harassment case brought by former team executive Anucha Browne Sanders against then-team president Isiah Thomas. Dolan supported Thomas, who maintained his innocence and was never found personally liable. However, Browne Sanders was awarded $11.6 million by a jury in 2007.

NBA Commissioner’s Response

NBA Commissioner Adam Silver refrained from commenting specifically on the allegations, stating that he had only read news stories about the lawsuit and would wait for more information. As commissioner, Silver has broad powers to act in instances of wrongdoing.

Weinstein’s Ongoing Legal Battles

Harvey Weinstein is currently serving a 23-year sentence for a rape and sexual assault conviction in New York, though the conviction is under appeal. He was also found guilty in 2022 in Los Angeles and sentenced to 16 years for the rape and sexual assault of an Italian actor and model known as Jane Doe 1. This case is also under appeal. Weinstein’s attorney has dismissed Croft’s assertions, stating that Weinstein vehemently denies the allegations and looks forward to litigating them in court.

Conclusion

The allegations brought forth by Kellye Croft against James Dolan and Harvey Weinstein paint a disturbing picture of sexual assault, manipulation, and exploitation. Croft’s lawsuit seeks justice and accountability for the trauma she has endured. As the legal process unfolds, the truth will hopefully emerge, and those responsible will be held accountable for their actions.