Justin Sane Ordered to Pay Damages in Sexual Assault Case
Background of the Case
Former Anti-Flag frontman Justin Sane, whose legal name is Justin Cathal Geever, has been ordered to pay nearly $2 million in damages to Kristina Sarhadi, a woman who alleged that he raped her in 2010. The ruling was reported by Rolling Stone and confirmed by Pitchfork.
Details of the Judgment
On July 22, 2023, Judge Brenda K. Sannes issued a default judgment against Justin Sane after he failed to respond to Sarhadi’s complaint. The court awarded Sarhadi $1,170,800 in damages for claims of assault, battery, and sexual battery. Additionally, she was granted $750,000 in punitive damages, although her claim for intentional infliction of emotional distress was denied.
Legal Proceedings
Sarhadi’s lawsuit was initially filed in New York state court under the Adult Survivors Act but was later transferred to federal court in early 2024. In her complaint, Sarhadi described a harrowing experience where Sane allegedly strangled her, forced her to perform oral sex, and raped her when she was just 21 years old.
Impact on Anti-Flag
The lawsuit emerged just months following the breakup of Anti-Flag, during which allegations of sexual misconduct against Justin Sane were disclosed. His former bandmates pointed to these allegations as a significant factor in the band’s dissolution. While Sane has denied the accusations of sexual assault, multiple women, including Sarhadi, have come forward with similar claims, detailing incidents of his purportedly predatory and abusive behavior.
Support for Survivors
If you or someone you know has been impacted by sexual assault, it is crucial to seek help. Below are resources available for support:
- RAINN National Sexual Assault Hotline: https://www.rainn.org | 1-800-656-HOPE (4673)
- Crisis Text Line: Text “HELLO” or “HOLA” to 741-741
Conclusion
The ruling against Justin Sane marks a significant moment in the ongoing conversation about accountability and justice for survivors of sexual assault. As more individuals come forward with their experiences, the music industry continues to grapple with the implications of such allegations.
FAQs
What led to the lawsuit against Justin Sane?
The lawsuit was filed by Kristina Sarhadi, who alleged that Sane sexually assaulted her in 2010. The case was influenced by the New York Adult Survivors Act, which allows survivors to seek justice for past abuses.
What damages were awarded to Sarhadi?
Judge Brenda K. Sannes awarded Sarhadi a total of $1,920,800, which includes $1,170,800 for assault-related claims and $750,000 in punitive damages.
Has Justin Sane commented on the allegations?
Justin Sane has denied the sexual assault allegations, but he has not publicly responded to the lawsuit or the recent judgment.
What resources are available for sexual assault survivors?
Survivors can reach out to organizations like the RAINN National Sexual Assault Hotline and the Crisis Text Line for support and assistance.
