Commanders release kicker McManus after claims of sexual assault on flight
Brandon McManus was released by Washington Commanders on Sunday in the wake of allegations that he sexually assaulted two women during a transatlantic flight.
“We take these types of allegations very seriously,” the commanders said in a statement.
The two women worked as flight attendants on the Jacksonville Jaguars’ flight to London last September. They allege in a civil lawsuit that McManus tried to kiss one of them and bumped into both of them while they were trying to do their job. They are seeking more than $1 million in damages, according to court documents. McManus was playing for the Jaguars at the time and the team was headed to London for a few regular season games.
Quick guide
How do I sign up for sports news alerts?
Show
- Download the Guardian app from the iOS App Store on iPhone or the Google Play store on Android by searching for ‘The Guardian’.
- If you already have the Guardian app, make sure you’re using the most recent version.
- In the Guardian app, tap the menu button in the bottom right, then go to Settings (the gear icon) and then Notifications.
- Turn on sports notifications.
McManus’ attorney, Brett R Gallaway, denied the allegations against his client in a statement released Sunday evening.
“We reiterate that the allegations against Brandon are and remain absolutely false, contradicted by indisputable evidence and the prosecutors’ own prior inconsistent statements and omissions,” Gallaway said. “While we are disappointed with the team’s decision to release Brandon before he had the opportunity to defend himself against these fabricated claims, we will aggressively defend and clear Brandon’s name and reputation through the legal process. We intend to reject these claims, fully exonerate him and look forward to seeing him back on the field where he belongs.”
McManus, 32, signed with Washington in March after playing with Jacksonville last season, his 10th in the NFL. The commanders and the Jaguars each said earlier this week that they were investigating the situation.