Steven Tyler, the iconic frontman of the band Aerosmith, is now facing a second lawsuit accusing him of sexual assault. The plaintiff, Jeanne Bellino, claims that Tyler assaulted her when she was just 17 years old. According to the lawsuit filed on Thursday, Bellino alleges that the incident took place in the summer of 1975 after a modeling gig. Her friend had plans to meet up with Tyler and the band at the Warwick Hotel in New York City for a party. Little did she know, this innocent encounter would turn into a traumatic experience.
Bellino details the events that unfolded that day in her lawsuit. As she and her friend walked down 6th Avenue in Manhattan with Tyler and his entourage, she innocently commented about a song lyric to Tyler. However, instead of a harmless exchange, she claims that Tyler became visibly irritated and unexpectedly grabbed her hand, forcing her into a phone booth. What happened next was nothing short of horrifying.
According to the lawsuit, Tyler proceeded to force himself on Bellino, “sticking his tongue down her throat” and touching her body without consent. She states that he pinned her against the wall of the phone booth, removing and moving her clothing. Shockingly, she alleges that Tyler even simulated sexual acts while his entourage stood outside, watching and laughing. The lawsuit suggests that the assault was violent and non-consensual, leaving Bellino feeling violated and helpless.
The recent lawsuit against Tyler is not the first of its kind. In December 2022, Julia Holcomb filed a sexual assault lawsuit against the rock star, claiming that their sexual relationship began when she was only 16 years old in 1973. Additionally, Holcomb alleged that Tyler forced her to undergo an abortion. While Tyler denied these allegations, asserting that their relationship was consensual and that he had legal immunity as her guardian at the time, the emergence of a second lawsuit raises disturbing questions about his behavior.
The impact of these traumatic experiences cannot be understated. Bellino, in her lawsuit, describes feeling “dazed, confused, and shocked” after the assault. She continued to accompany Tyler’s entourage to the hotel out of necessity, relying on her friend for transportation and lacking the means to cover the expenses alone. Once inside the hotel, Bellino alleges that Tyler assaulted her again, pinning her against the wall and making unwanted sexual advances. The lawsuit suggests that she felt trapped, afraid, and helpless throughout the ordeal.
Bellino claims that she tried to resist Tyler’s advances by pulling his hair, signaling her lack of consent. However, her attempts to escape were met with Tyler’s alleged threats and manipulation. She states that he whispered in her ear, indicating his intention to go to his room. Fearing for her safety and well-being, Bellino found herself paralyzed and unable to communicate coherently. The lawsuit paints a picture of a young woman desperately seeking help and a way to escape from her abuser.
After Tyler left to go to his room, Bellino found herself alone and distraught in the hotel lobby. In a moment of compassion, someone from Tyler’s entourage informed her that she could go up to his room. Overwhelmed and in shock, Bellino tried to find assistance but ultimately fled the scene with the help of a doorman, seeking refuge in a taxi. These allegations paint a harrowing picture of the emotional and psychological aftermath of sexual assault.
The recent accusations against Steven Tyler bring to light the importance of addressing and confronting allegations of sexual assault. No individual, regardless of their status or influence, should be exempt from facing the consequences of their actions. The bravery displayed by survivors who come forward should be commended, as they seek justice and hope to prevent further harm.
As the legal process unfolds, it is essential to remember that these are serious allegations that require thorough investigation and examination. The accused and the accuser should be treated with fairness and respect, allowing for a fair resolution.
Ultimately, the outcome of these lawsuits against Steven Tyler will shape not only his personal legacy but also the broader conversation surrounding sexual assault and the accountability of public figures. It is a reminder that even those we admire and idolize can be capable of reprehensible acts, and it is our collective responsibility to ensure that victims’ voices are heard and justice is served.