CARSON CITY, Nev. — A Nevada judge has denied motions
by lawyers for Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger to dismiss a
civil lawsuit filed by a Lake Tahoe casino worker who alleges he raped her in
his penthouse suite in 2008.
Washoe District Judge Brent Adams rejected arguments that
the suit should be dismissed, saying the woman's allegations make a "sufficient"
claim that if proven, would entitle her to relief. The order was made available
Wednesday.
Roethlisberger's lawyer David Cornwell says that despite
the outcome, they are encouraged by the judge's reasoning.
Cornwell says Adams used a "generous" standard to allow
the woman her day in court.
He says the woman's allegations are false and
Roethlisberger will pursue a "vigorous defense."