Gilbert Rozon has recently settled his defamation lawsuit against Julie Snyder and Pénélope McQuade. This agreement comes as Rozon awaits the outcome of a civil trial regarding allegations of sexual assault from nine women. The settlement was confirmed on March 26, ahead of the scheduled trial date of April 22.
Details of the Defamation Lawsuit Settlement
Rozon initiated a defamation suit seeking $450,000 in damages. He claimed that Snyder and McQuade made “slanderous, vexatious, and seriously defamatory” remarks during an episode of “La semaine des 4 Julie” on September 29, 2020. In this episode, Snyder recounted an alleged assault she experienced in Paris in 1991, while McQuade discussed her own claims of assault from 1997.
Reactions from Julie Snyder and Pénélope McQuade
- Julie Snyder expressed hope that court resources could now be directed towards unrepresented victims in society.
- Snyder emphasized the legitimacy of her claims, stating her sustained commitment to contesting the lawsuit.
- Pénélope McQuade shared her relief, marking the end of a legal battle that began nearly a decade ago. She affirmed her ongoing support for victims of assault.
Following the settlement announcement, Rozon did not provide comments but indicated that a statement would be released soon.
Background of Allegations and Legal Proceedings
Rozon has denied the accusations made by Snyder and McQuade. He recounted an incident where Snyder visited him unannounced, claiming she was in distress due to a breakup. Meanwhile, McQuade testified about her own experiences, asserting that she had also faced assault by Rozon, which he categorically denied.
The defamation lawsuit had previously been characterized as an attempt to silence Snyder and McQuade. In December 2021, they had sought to dismiss the case, arguing it was a strategic lawsuit against public participation. Nonetheless, the superior court ruled against dismissing the case, allowing it to proceed to trial.
Julie Snyder’s counterclaim argued that Rozon’s lawsuit was “abusive, unfounded, excessive, and a distortion of justice.” The recent settlement has closed this chapter for both Snyder and McQuade, allowing them to focus on their advocacy for victims of sexual violence.
