Legal Decision

In a significant legal ruling on Wednesday, a US district judge in Manhattan dismissed a lawsuit accusing Aerosmith frontman Steven Tyler of sexually assaulting a former teenage model nearly five decades ago. The judge, Lewis Kaplan, stated that Jeanne Bellino’s lawsuit was filed too late under a New York City law protecting victims of gender-motivated violence. Despite vehemently denying the allegations, Tyler was cleared of the accusations due to the timing of the lawsuit.

Statute of Limitations

Judge Kaplan determined that Bellino’s claims did not qualify for a two-year window to pursue legal action beyond the statutes of limitations. This decision was based on the absence of allegations suggesting that Tyler’s conduct posed a serious risk of physical injury. Additionally, Kaplan pointed out that two state laws, the Child Victims Act and Adult Survivors Act, rendered Bellino’s claim obsolete, following arguments presented by Tyler’s legal team.

Background Allegations

Bellino, a former teenage model, alleged that Tyler sexually assaulted her twice in one day in Manhattan during the summer of 1975. She claimed that these incidents occurred after being introduced to Tyler by a friend at a nearby hotel, where the assaults allegedly took place.

Legal Response

While a lawyer for Bellino has yet to comment on the ruling, David Long-Daniels, representing Tyler, expressed gratitude for the court’s decision, affirming their agreement with the judge’s reasoning.

Ongoing Legal Battles

Despite the dismissal of Bellino’s lawsuit, Tyler continues to face legal challenges. He remains embroiled in a separate lawsuit involving allegations of sexual battery and assault by Julia Holcomb Misley, a minor with whom he had a relationship during the same decade. Tyler has denied the accusations of assault and battery, although he acknowledges having had a relationship with Misley. Legal proceedings in this matter are ongoing.

Conclusion

The dismissal of the lawsuit against Steven Tyler marks a pivotal legal development, highlighting the complexities of addressing historical allegations of sexual assault and the application of statutes of limitations. Despite this legal victory, Tyler’s legal battles continue, underscoring the enduring nature of these allegations and the ongoing pursuit of justice.