Above the Law or Under Siege?

A former employee of action film and reality television star, Steven Seagal, has filed a civil lawsuit against him for trafficking women for sex and sexual harassment among other things.

Already various online communities are crucifying him before any facts of the case are known besides the claimant's statements in the lawsuit.

I would like to point out that no criminal charges have been filed against Seagal. This is a civil lawsuit requesting a settlement of more than one million dollars.

Recently, I took part in a conversation regarding various court cases with similar accusations. Sadly, often times fraudulent criminal charges are filed against a former partner who engaged in a consensual sexual slavery/SM/BDSM relationship. Not because the alleged "victim" was actually victimized but because the "victim" wants some kind of satisfaction from retaliation, vengeance, or other emotional/financial gain.

This is not to say abuses do not happen.

I am simply stating that there are several instances of consensual kinky relationships ending and taking an ugly turn involving the courts. Unfortunately, because the idea of kink is so taboo for many people, judges and juries are often biased by words like "slavery" and "rough sex". There is disbelief that anyone would consent to participate in this kind of activity.

Except people do...a lot. Behind closed doors. In secret. Because it's not socially acceptable.

So...is Steven Seagal Above the Law in this instance? Did he sexually harass, abuse, and keep slaves as his accuser claims? Or is he simply Under Siege by a disgruntled former employee?

We'll likely never know the truth.

But I'd like to think we might be able to all keep an open mind.

Judge not lest ye be judged.