(Update 7-10) The Richmond Times-Dispatch reports that a lawyer for Lt. Gov. Justin Fairfax has told a prosecutor that a witness was present and can corroborate that Fairfax’s sexual encounter with Meredith Watson at Duke University in 2000 was consensual. Fairfax lawyer Barry Pollack says a witness backs up Fairfax’s claim that Watson’s charge against him is “demonstrably false.” Another woman has also accused Fairfax of sexual assault
(Previously filed ) RICHMOND, Va. (AP) – Virginia Lt. Gov. Justin Fairfax is resigning from the law firm Morrison & Foerster, where he has been on leave since February amid allegations of sexual assault. News outlets report Fairfax and the firm confirmed Monday that he’s resigning as partner. When allegations emerged, the firm hired outside counsel to investigate Fairfax’s tenure uncovering no evidence of misconduct while he was an employee. Two women publicly accused Fairfax of sexually assaulting them in 2000 and 2004. Fairfax says their sexual encounters were consensual. Both women have urged the Virginia General Assembly to hold hearings on their allegations, but Democratic legislative leaders have resisted. Fairfax said he would welcome an investigation by authorities. Republicans have called for hearings on the sexual allegations against Fairfax next week.
