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Judge denies request to delay civil trial against Houston Texans QB Watson

FILE- In an Aug. 2, 2021 file photo, Texans quarterback Deshaun Watson practices with the team during NFL football practice in Houston. Attorneys involved in the lawsuits accusing Watson of sexual assault and harassment say the FBI has become involved in the case. Tony Buzbee, the attorney for the 22 women who have sued Watson, said Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2021 he and some of his clients have spoken with FBI agents about the allegations against Watson.(AP Photo/Justin Rex_file) (Justin Rex, Copyright 2021 The Associated Press. All rights reserved)

HOUSTON – A judge has denied a request by Houston Texans quarterback Deshaun Watson’s attorney to delay the football star’s deposition, a process when someone is questioned under oath.

Twenty-two women have come out against Watson, accusing him of inappropriate behavior during massage therapy sessions. The women are being represented by Houston attorney Tony Buzbee.

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During Monday’s hearing, Watson’s attorney, Rusty Hardin, asked for the trail to be pushed back after all 22 of the accusers have been deposed and to let the criminal investigation surrounding the case finish. Hardin filed the motion last week requesting the deposition be postponed because he claims 10 out of the 22 accusers continue delaying their depositions; the procedure of being questioned under oath.

The motion reads, “Mr. Watson seeks a modest accommodation to protect two key goals of the parties’ agreed docket control order (”DCO”) that are currently in jeopardy - largely because of delays created by the plaintiffs’ discovery conduct. Specifically, Mr. Watson seeks a 60-day extension of certain DCO deadlines. Mr. Watson also asks that his depositions be scheduled to begin after April 1, 2022, instead of after Feb. 22, 2022.”

Nine women accusing Watson, who have already been deposed and have not filed criminal complaints, can proceed with Watson’s deposition when available.

The judge decided to not push back those cases.

Watson continues to deny any wrongdoing, claiming he has never treated any woman with anything other than “upmost respect” and looks forward to clearing his name.

CONTINUING COVERAGE:

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About the Authors
Nakia Cooper headshot

Mother of two. Award-winning lover of digital storytelling, sparked by my fascination of being a fashionable gossip like my favorite "Willona Woods" character from "Good Times." On the serious side, president of the Houston Association of Black Journalists and dedicated community servant. Happy to share the news with you each and every day!

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Award-winning journalist, mother, YouTuber, social media guru, millennial, mentor, storyteller, University of Houston alumna and Houston-native.

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