A woman identified as Jane Doe A.G. has a lawsuit in Utah state court accusing Brigham Young University (BYU) quarterback Jake Retzlaff of rape, strangulation, and assault in an incident allegedly occurring in November 2023.
The suit also claims the Provo Police Department discouraged the plaintiff from pursuing justice, a claim the department has publicly denied.
According to court documents, the plaintiff met Retzlaff via social media in October 2023. On or around November 22, 2023, she visited his home, where they watched a movie together.
The lawsuit alleges that when Jane Doe attempted to halt a physical encounter, Retzlaff ignored her protests, escalating the situation by strangling and raping her.
The plaintiff claims she lost consciousness due to pain and lack of oxygen. Following the alleged assault, she underwent a forensic exam at a hospital, where a rape kit was collected and injuries were photographed.
The lawsuit further alleges that Jane Doe initially did not identify Retzlaff to police but came forward after learning of a separate complaint involving a football player. She claims Provo police discouraged her from pursuing the case, allegedly telling her that “sexual assault victims never get justice.”
The Provo Police Department issued a statement denying these claims, asserting their commitment to thoroughly investigating all allegations.
Jane Doe A.G. continues to suffer from severe post-traumatic stress disorder and other symptoms, according to the lawsuit. The filing seeks unspecified damages for the physical and emotional harm endured.
Retzlaff’s attorney, Mark Baute, issued a statement defending his client: “Jake is factually innocent. We will respect the process and prove his innocence through the judicial system.”
Retzlaff, who transferred to BYU from Riverside City College in California, emerged as the Cougars’ starting quarterback in 2024, amassing 2,947 passing yards, 20 touchdowns, and 12 interceptions during the season.
BYU responded to the lawsuit, stating, “The university takes any allegation very seriously, following all processes and guidelines mandated by Title IX.” Citing privacy laws, the university declined further comment.
WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW
The case has drawn attention to both the serious allegations and the broader implications for Title IX compliance and law enforcement’s handling of sexual assault cases.
As the judicial process unfolds, the court will determine the merits of the claims and Retzlaff’s defense.
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