Provo, Utah — A civil lawsuit has been filed against Jake Retzlaff, the senior quarterback for Brigham Young University, alleging he sexually assaulted a woman in November 2023. The lawsuit, submitted in Salt Lake City’s Third District Court, identifies the plaintiff as Jane Doe A.G.
The complaint claims that Retzlaff assaulted the plaintiff at his residence after the two became acquainted through social media in October 2023. The incident reportedly occurred around November 22, when the plaintiff visited Retzlaff’s home to socialize, aided by a friend. After her friend departed, the lawsuit alleges that Retzlaff and the plaintiff began kissing, but when the situation escalated, she attempted to deescalate it by pulling away and saying “wait.”
According to the court documents, when the plaintiff tried to move away, Retzlaff allegedly reacted by pulling her hair and physically assaulting her. Alarmed by Retzlaff’s escalating aggression, the plaintiff attempted to call for help but discovered her phone was out of battery. The lawsuit details a series of alarming events, including Retzlaff allegedly biting and choking her before she lost consciousness.
A few days after the incident, the plaintiff sought medical attention where a rape kit was administered, and photos documenting her injuries were taken. Although she engaged with the Provo Police Department regarding her experience, she initially refrained from disclosing Retzlaff’s identity due to fears of retaliation.
Court documents indicate that the situation changed when a police officer inquired about Retzlaff’s name, as there had been another complaint involving a football player. Subsequently, the plaintiff shared Retzlaff’s identity, at which point police allegedly discouraged her from pursuing the matter, suggesting that victims of sexual assault rarely receive justice.
In response to the lawsuit, attorney Mark D. Baute, representing Retzlaff, issued a statement asserting his client’s innocence. Baute emphasized Retzlaff’s character and expressed confidence in proving his innocence through the judicial system. He also noted that Retzlaff’s focus would remain on football as he enters his redshirt senior season.
As the news unfolds, Brigham Young University acknowledged the lawsuit in a statement, emphasizing the seriousness of such allegations. The university noted that they are committed to following Title IX guidelines, while further commenting on the matter is restricted due to privacy laws concerning students.
Retzlaff, who has been a starter for two seasons at BYU, is now facing significant legal challenges as he prepares for the upcoming season amidst these serious allegations.
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