Scarlett Pavlovich has accused famed author Neil Gaiman of raping and assaulting her during her employment with his family in New Zealand in 2022. The allegations have led to Pavlovich filing a lawsuit against Gaiman and his ex-wife Amanda Palmer in Wisconsin, as well as against Palmer individually in Massachusetts and New York. The lawsuit claims that Gaiman and Palmer violated federal human trafficking laws, with Pavlovich seeking damages of at least $7 million (£5.6 million).
Gaiman's legal team has countered these allegations, arguing that U.S. courts lack the jurisdiction to adjudicate the lawsuit since the alleged incidents occurred in New Zealand. New Zealand police conducted a thorough investigation into Pavlovich's claims and concluded that they found "no merit," declining to file charges.
In a Tortoise Media podcast released in the summer of 2024, Pavlovich publicly detailed her allegations for the first time. She was also among eight women who reported instances of assault, abuse, and coercion to New York Magazine in January. Pavlovich claims she was befriended by Palmer at 22 while she was homeless in New Zealand and alleges that Gaiman repeatedly assaulted her after she began working for the couple.
Gaiman has firmly denied Pavlovich's accusations, describing them as "a sham" and "invented." He maintains his innocence, asserting:
"In no uncertain terms, Pavlovich's accusations are false."
His lawyers have presented WhatsApp messages as evidence to support their defense. According to them, the messages show Pavlovich thanking Gaiman for a "lovely lovely night" and affirming that their relationship was "consensual." Gaiman further stated:
"I'm far from a perfect person, but I have never engaged in non-consensual sexual activity with anyone. Ever."
The case has garnered significant attention due to the high-profile nature of the individuals involved and the serious nature of the allegations. Gaiman's legal team remains steadfast in their position, asserting that Pavlovich is attempting to "invent" a story.
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