The sexual assault lawsuit against NBA veteran Dwight Howard has reached a conclusion. Filed by Stephen Harper in July 2023, the legal case has been dismissed with prejudice, ending the legal battle between the two parties.
Dismissal Details
Stephen Harper initially brought forth the lawsuit, alleging that Howard and another individual, identified as "Kitty," forced him into unwanted sexual activity. Harper's claims included that he and Howard had exchanged messages on Instagram, subsequently agreeing to meet for a sexual encounter at Howard's residence. Harper supported his claims with screenshots of their Instagram conversations and an Uber receipt confirming his travel to Howard's home.
Despite these allegations, the case saw minimal action on the part of law enforcement. Harper first reported the incident to Gwinnett County police in 2022; however, he never provided a formal interview. Consequently, the police suspended the case and chose not to pursue further criminal charges against Howard.
Responses and Legal Developments
Howard's legal team took an active approach to dismiss the lawsuit. They filed a motion to dismiss the case in December 2023, but in February 2024, a judge declined to dismiss the case. Ultimately, Harper decided to drop all claims against Howard with prejudice.
Interestingly, amidst the legal turmoil, Howard remained somewhat unfazed publicly. In an Instagram Live broadcast in October 2023, Howard addressed the accusations with a dismissive tone. "Stop worrying about it. I ain't gotta deny it; I don't gotta talk about none of that crap. This s--- didn't even happen. You worried about the wrong stuff. That's why it's called an accusation. Allegedly. Come on, man," Howard remarked.
Howard's Career and Current Endeavors
Dwight Howard, aged 38, has had a storied career in the NBA. Selected as the number one overall pick in the 2004 NBA Draft by the Orlando Magic, Howard quickly established himself as one of the league's premier big men. Over his career, he earned eight All-Star selections and played a crucial role in securing an NBA title in 2020 during his second stint with the Los Angeles Lakers. His most recent NBA appearance came in 2022 with the Lakers.
Currently, Howard is taking his talents overseas, playing for the Taiwan Mustangs. Despite his career’s trajectory from the NBA limelight to international play, Howard remains an athletic figure whose career continues to draw attention.
The conclusion of this lawsuit marks a significant moment in Howard's recent personal life. While it appears both parties have decided to move on from these legal proceedings, the incident has added another complex chapter to Howard's public life and career.