This story contains mention of sexual assault.
You probably remember that, late last year, a legal complaint was filed alleging that Jay-Z and Sean “Diddy” Combs drugged and raped a 13-year-old girl in 2000.
NPR reports that, according to legal documents that were filed on Friday, Feb. 15, the lawsuit has been dismissed against Jay-Z and Diddy. Moreover, the filing notes that the dismissal was filed “with prejudice,” meaning that the alleged victim is not allowed to re-file the lawsuit.
In a statement, Jay-Z referred to the dismissal as a “victory” and referred to the allegations as “frivolous, fictitious and appalling.”
“This civil suit was without merit and never going anywhere,” he wrote. “The fictional tale they created was laughable, if not for the seriousness of the claims. I would not wish this experience on anyone. The trauma that my wife, my children, my loved ones and I have endured can never be dismissed.”
In the statement, Jay-Z also referred to the alleged victim’s lawyer Tony Buzbee as a “1-800 lawyer.” “When they quickly realize that the money grab is going to fail, they get to walk away with no repercussions,” he added. “The system has failed.”
“The court must protect victims, OF COURSE, while with the same ethical responsibility, the courts must protect the innocent from being accused without a shred of evidence. May the truth prevail for all victims and those falsely accused equally.”
If you or someone you know has experienced sexual assault, you can call the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 1-800-656-HOPE, which routes the caller to their nearest sexual assault service provider. You can also search for your local center here.