Opening statements began on Monday in a civil trial against Oscar-winning filmmaker Paul Haggis, who has been accused of raping a publicist nearly a decade ago. Haleigh Breest, who filed a la…
Haleigh Breest, who filed a lawsuit against Haggis in 2017, alleges that the screenwriter and director forced her to perform oral sex and then raped her after she reluctantly agreed to have a drink at his Soho apartment following a movie premiere. Her attorneys asserted to jurors that the director used his fame and position in Hollywood to pressure Breest, who was 26 at the time.
Haggis does not deny the two had sex, but he says it was consensual. Moreover, the defense maintains the rape charge came in retaliation for Haggis’ decision to leave after 30 years and then criticize the Church of Scientology. Haggis parted with Scientology in 2009 over its opposition to gay marriage. He has since alleged that leaders of the controversial religion were trying to “find dirt” on him before the rape allegation was leveled.
Breest’s attorney refutes that the plaintiff has any connection to the Church. “Haleigh Breest has nothing to do with Scientology. Scientology has nothing to do with this case.”
Canada Latest News, Canada Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
State of Wisconsin expected to rest Monday in Waukesha parade trial | LIVEThe suspect, who is representing himself, has been questioning some of the Waukesha parade victims.
Read more »
NHL picks and predictions for Monday, Oct. 17: Bruins, Jets provide valueTwo NHL underdog bets to target for Monday.
Read more »
Hardly Anyone Saw Them, But First Snowflakes of the Season Hit the Ground in Chicago MondayIt wasn't exactly a winter wonderland, but the first snowflakes of the season were recorded Monday morning at O'Hare, according to the National Weather Service.
Read more »
U.S. stocks book big gains Monday, S&P 500 records best day in two weeksU.S. stocks closed sharply higher Monday as quarterly corporate earnings picked up steam. The Dow Jones Industrial Average gained about 550 points, or 1.9%, ending near 30,188:
Read more »
Sam's Club memberships increase Monday for the first time in nearly a decadeSam's Club shoppers will pay slightly higher membership fees Monday. The higher fees come as the unit of Walmart and other retailers navigate their own inflationary headwinds.
Read more »
Deadline approaches Monday for Phoenix Suns to sign Cam Johnson to rookie extensionPhoenix Suns have until 3 p.m. Monday to sign Cam Johnson to rookie extension
Read more »