The attorney for Seattle Mayor Ed Murray believes the lawsuit alleging sexual abuse in the 1980s has no credibility after a doctor examined the mayor’s genitalia.
A lawsuit filed by a 46-year-old Kent man – who goes by D.H. – claimed that as a homeless, drug-addicted teen he was abused by Murray at his former Capitol Hill apartment. D.H. made specific remarks in the complaint regarding the mayor’s body and a mole on his genitalia.
Murray’s private attorney, Bob Sulkin, said in a news conference on Tuesday that the case is "meritless" because a recent examination showed no mole or evidence of a mole.
Key developments:
- A 46-year-old man in Kent filed a lawsuit last week claiming Murray sexually abused him.
- Murray, 61, has denied the allegations, saying they were politically motivated.
- In a statement released Monday, Harrell said the council is committed to "the business of governing" and won't make statements on pending or potential litigation.
- Murray's attorney on Tuesday said the lawsuit has no credit after Murray's doctor exam.
Below read a breakdown of the lawsuit and Murray's response below.
About the lawsuit
The response from Murray and his attorney
Other sexual abuse allegations against Murray
Lawyer for mayor's accuser claims 'big news' about alleged victims 'soon'
Lincoln Beauregard represents the 46-year-old Kent man identified as "D.H" who is suing Murray for allegedly sexually assaulting him dozens of times, back in the 80s, beginning when D.H. was only 15 years old.
Beauregard told KIRO 7 News’ Amy Clancy before Tuesday's news conference that more potential victims may be coming forward.
Beauregard denied he’s searching for other potential victims.
“We don’t have to search in a case like this,” he said. “They just start calling you, when you’re the attorney on the case. There will be some pretty big news, I’m sure, pretty soon.”
No comment from city council
Seattle City Council President Bruce Harrell says he and his colleagues won't comment on sex abuse accusations made against Mayor Ed Murray.
Harrell issued the following statement on Monday.
"My Council colleagues and I have no intention of commenting on matters of pending or potential litigation. We believe that it is critically important that, together, we remain committed to the business of governing.
"All City employees and City departments are focused on our core responsibilities of customer service, affordable housing, homelessness, public safety, transportation, education, and ensuring equality for all in a great, but rapidly growing city. The work before us is too critical for the future of Seattle and its residents. We intend to continue working with unwavering dedication to serving the people who put their faith in us.
"Our city cannot afford to be distracted. There is a judicial process that will address the serious allegations that this situation has presented, and we will respect that process and the rights of all parties involved. All accusations of abuse require a thorough investigation. It is in our human nature to immediately want answers, but I ask we not cast aspersions to the parties involved before we have all the facts through the legal process. I am confident that through this process, truth and justice will prevail.
"It is worth repeating we are steadfast and focused on serving the people of Seattle. Council has a strong committee structure that works with the city's 40 departments in upholding our City Charter '<em>of protecting and enhancing the health, safety, environment, and general welfare of the people; to enable municipal government to provide services and meet the needs of the people efficiently; to allow fair and equitable participation of all persons in the affairs of the City; to provide for transparency, accountability, and ethics in governance and civil service; to foster fiscal responsibility; to promote prosperity and to meet the broad needs for a healthy, growing City.</em>'"