Russell Simmons must continue defending a sexual assault lawsuit in New York after a state court rejected his effort to dismiss claims brought by a former Def Jam Recordings executive. The ruling states that the alleged conduct falls within the court’s jurisdiction despite the music mogul’s residence in Indonesia.
In a June 16 decision, New York Supreme Court Justice Adam Silvera held that claims filed by an anonymous plaintiff identified as Jane Doe may proceed under New York law. The lawsuit alleges Simmons raped the former Def Jam employee during the 1990s at his Manhattan apartment while she worked in the label’s music video department.
The ruling follows an earlier setback for Doe in federal court, where a judge found Simmons, who has lived in Indonesia since 2018, was beyond that court’s jurisdiction. Doe subsequently refiled her claims in state court.
Silvera concluded that New York courts may exercise jurisdiction because the alleged assault occurred within the state.
“The complaint alleges the defendant committed the tort of rape in New York state,” Silvera wrote. “[In New York], a court may exercise personal jurisdiction over any non-domiciliary who commits a tortious act within the state.”
Russell Simmons Can Still Be Sued By Def Jam Recordings Exec While Living In Indonesia, Judge Rules
The court also declined to dismiss the case based on a 1997 severance agreement that Simmons’ attorneys argue released any potential claims against him. Doe’s legal team contends the document is invalid and alleges her signature was forged.
Silvera found that a “genuine dispute as to its authenticity” exists. It is determined that evidence must be developed before the court can decide whether the agreement is enforceable.
The litigation now moves into discovery, where both parties will exchange documents, conduct depositions and gather evidence. The court has scheduled an August conference to establish a case-management schedule.
Neither Simmons’ representatives nor attorneys for Doe publicly commented on the ruling.
The lawsuit was filed under New York’s Adult Survivors Act, which temporarily revived otherwise time-barred sexual assault claims. Simmons has repeatedly denied allegations of sexual misconduct and has maintained his innocence.
In court filings, Simmons’ attorneys said he intends to challenge. They described as “untrue and unproven allegations” and seek to clear his name as the case proceeds.
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