New York, NY — A civil lawsuit has been filed by the Thomas More Society against Brianna Rivers, stemming from an alleged assault on pro-life advocate Savannah Craven Antao. The incident occurred in Harlem while Antao was peacefully discussing her beliefs during a street interview. The Manhattan District Attorney’s office has faced criticism for its decision not to prosecute Rivers, who is accused of inflicting physical harm during the confrontation.
The lawsuit details claims that Rivers struck Antao in the face multiple times, including using a cell phone as a weapon, which resulted in significant injuries and lasting emotional distress. Additionally, the filing highlights that Rivers allegedly boasted about the incident on social media platforms, further mocking Antao’s Christian faith and promoting merchandise that celebrated the violent episode.
Chris Ferrara, Senior Counsel at Thomas More Society, expressed strong concerns about how law enforcement handled the case. “Savannah was attacked for her beliefs, and instead of seeking justice, the DA’s office ignored their duty,” he stated. “This failure to act has left us no alternative but to pursue civil action against Rivers.” The lawsuit aims to hold Rivers accountable for what the organization characterizes as a serious offense motivated by hate.
Antao has publicly shared her hopes that the legal proceedings will bring a sense of justice. “I was attacked in broad daylight for standing up for my beliefs, and my assailant continues to boast about it,” she commented. “The DA’s decision not to take action reflects a significant failure to uphold justice for all New Yorkers.” She expressed appreciation for the Thomas More Society’s involvement in the case.
The lawsuit seeks both compensatory and punitive damages, asserting claims of assault, battery, and emotional distress. The legal team aims to demonstrate that the treatment of Antao as a victim was unjust, suggesting that societal standards should not allow violent offenders to evade accountability, particularly when the victim holds specific beliefs.
Ferrara emphasized the broader implications of this case, noting that “allowing violent acts to go unpunished undermines the very fabric of our justice system.” He affirmed their commitment to pursuing all allegations in court and advocating for Antao’s rights as a peaceful believer and advocate.
As this civil suit unfolds, it highlights ongoing tensions surrounding public discourse on sensitive topics such as abortion rights and the treatment of those who engage in advocacy. The outcome may not only affect the parties involved but could also resonate across similar instances of confrontation within the public sphere.