(WKRK) A second grand jury in the Houston area has convened to hear evidence against new Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson after allegations of sexual misconduct against him, according to multiple reports Thursday.
On March 11, a grand jury in Harris County declined to indict Watson on criminal charges in nine cases relating to the sexual assault and sexual harassment accusations. Watson was traded from the Texans to the Browns last week for a haul of draft picks, then signed a record-breaking five-year, $230-million deal with Cleveland.
Now, the second grand jury in Brazoria County is looking into a 10th criminal complaint. Watson is accused of ejaculating on a woman during a massage appointment in November 2020, the New York Times reported. The grand jury is expected to issue a decision Thursday or Friday, the Times reported.
A series of civil cases are also still pending against Watson, who has continued to deny wrongdoing as the legal process has played out. Watson has been accused of sexual misconduct by 22 women.
Under the NFL’s personal conduct policy, Watson could face disciplinary action from the league, which is still conducting its independent investigation into his behavior.
After taking criticism for acquiring Watson and before the newest criminal complaint came to light publicly, the Browns released a statement.
“We spent a tremendous amount of time exploring and investigating the opportunity to trade for Deshaun Watson," Browns owners Dee and Jimmy Haslam said in a statement. "We are acutely aware and empathetic to the highly personal sentiments expressed about this decision. Our team’s comprehensive evaluation process was of utmost importance due to the sensitive nature of his situation and the complex factors involved.
“We also understand there are still some legal proceedings that are ongoing and we will respect due process.”