Attorney for accusers in Deshaun Watson case says NFL ‘bungled’ sexual misconduct investigation

CLEVELAND, Ohio (WOIO) - The attorney and several accusers alleging sexual misconduct against Cleveland Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson gave an update on the investigation.

Remarks from attorney Tony Buzbee, accuser Ashley Solis, and several other plaintiffs who initially filed civil lawsuits against Watson were delivered on Thursday afternoon from the Houston, Texas area.

Former judge Sue Robinson, the disciplinary officer appointed to arbitrate over the Watson investigation, initially recommended a six-game suspension.

The NFL responded on Wednesday by announcing intentions to appeal the proposed punishment in an effort to impose something more harsh.

Buzbee said the NFL “bungled” the investigation leading up to Watson’s proposed punishment.

Commissioner Roger Goodell or a designated appointee will now hear the NFL’s appeal.

Watson was accused of sexual misconduct by more than two dozen women during encounters for massage therapy.

“We believe the elected DA failed these women,” Buzbee said on Thursday.

Two separate grand juries in Harris County, Texas chose not to indict Watson on criminal charges based on the evidence and cases presented.

Robinson called the allegations “more egregious than any before reviewed by the NFL.”

The 26-year-old quarterback previously stated during his introductory press conference with the Cleveland Browns that he “never assaulted any woman.”

Watson signed a $230 million fully guaranteed five-year contract with the Cleveland Browns during the offseason.

This story will be updated.

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