Ben Roethlisberger made his first comments today at a 2:00 p.m. press conference, denying that he sexually assaulted (July 2008) Nevada woman Andrea McNulty, calling the “vicious” allegations outrageous and that he will fight to the end for his family and his reputation.
Roethlisberger claimed he first heard of the allegations on Saturday and that he would never force himself on a woman.
The civil suit was filed over the weekend as Andrea McNulty seeks nearly $450,000 from Roethlisberger and $50,000 from eight Harrah’s employees.
There are no plans from investigators to open a criminal investigation.
Roethlisberger was very emotional today and made it very clear today that he will fight the allegations to the end.
Roethlisberger’s Statement
“I did not sexually assault Andrea McNulty. Saturday, was the first that I learned of her accusations. Her false and vicious allegations are an attack on my family and on me. I would never ever force myself on a woman. I’m going to fight to protect my family and my reputation.
“I am not going to discuss my private life or this civil case in the media. I’ll respond to these outrageous allegations in the appropriate forum.
“I have an obligation to our fans, to my teammates, to my coaches and everyone in the organization to remain focused on the Pittsburgh Steelers. And I will do that.
“The allegations against me are reckless and false. As much as I would like to answer everyone’s questions, I’m going to respect the legal process and I am confident that the truth will prevail. Thanks you.”