PROVO, Utah – Jake Retzlaff, the starting quarterback for Brigham Young University, is facing allegations of sexual assault detailed in a civil lawsuit filed by a woman identified as Jane Doe A.G. The incident reportedly occurred at her home in November 2023.
According to the suit, Retzlaff and the plaintiff began communicating on social media earlier that year. Following their interactions, the two met in person, culminating in the alleged assault. Jane Doe A.G. claims in her lawsuit that she is seeking damages for battery, assault, and intentional infliction of emotional distress.
Retzlaff’s attorney, Mark D. Baute, has fervently denied the allegations, describing Retzlaff as a “nice young man” who is “factually innocent.” Baute emphasized the athlete’s commitment to focusing on football while asserting that they will seek to clear his name through the judicial process.
After the incident, the alleged victim underwent a rape kit examination at a hospital but initially did not disclose Retzlaff’s identity. She later identified him to the Provo Police, but she claims an officer discouraged her from pursuing charges, asserting that “sexual assault victims never get justice.”
The Provo Police Department refuted this assertion, stating that they made multiple attempts to follow up with the complainant but received no replies. An official from the department conveyed that the allegations against them are unfounded, affirming their dedication to providing justice for victims of sexual abuse.
The lawsuit claims that a movie night on November 22 escalated into an unwanted sexual encounter. Jane Doe A.G. stated that despite her verbal objections, Retzlaff continued to engage in sexual acts against her will.
Jake Retzlaff has been a key player for the BYU Cougars, co-captaining the team and contributing significantly to its success with an 11-2 record for the 2024 season. He passed for 2,947 yards and achieved 20 touchdowns, along with rushing for 417 yards and six scores, solidifying his status as a noteworthy athlete following his transfer from Riverside City College, where he was recognized as the nation’s top junior college quarterback.
The BYU athletics department has acknowledged the lawsuit, highlighting their commitment to serious consideration of such allegations while adhering to Title IX processes. Due to privacy laws, the university will not be able to comment further on the matter.
This ongoing situation has garnered attention, and the legal process will determine the outcome of the allegations made against Retzlaff.
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