**Title:** Marc Lasry Denies Sexual Harassment Allegations in $100M Lawsuit
**Meta Description:** Former Bucks co-owner Marc Lasry refutes sexual harassment claims made by ex-employee Gina Strum, who has filed a $100 million countersuit.
**URL Slug:** marc-lasry-sexual-harassment-lawsuit
**Headline:** Marc Lasry Responds to Sexual Harassment Allegations in $100 Million Lawsuit
Former Milwaukee Bucks co-owner Marc Lasry has publicly denied allegations made by Gina Strum, a former employee, who claims he subjected her to years of sexual harassment and a smear campaign. Strum, an attorney and executive, filed a countersuit in New York Supreme Court seeking $100 million, naming Lasry, his Avenue Capital Group, and co-founder Sonia Gardner as defendants.
Strum alleges that Lasry abused his position as CEO to manipulate, harass, and retaliate against her after she rejected his advances and reported misconduct. The countersuit accuses Lasry of engaging in a pattern of grooming and predatory behavior, using his authority and emotional manipulation to create inappropriate dependencies and erode professional boundaries. Strum’s claims include sexual harassment, sexual assault, defamation, retaliation, breach of fiduciary duty, and fraud.
In response, a statement from Kekst CNC, representing Lasry and Avenue Capital Group, characterized Strum’s amended complaint as an attempt to generate headlines. The statement claimed, “Ms. Strum continues to attempt to use the media as part of her malicious campaign to ruin the reputations of Avenue, Marc Lasry, and Sonia Gardner for financial gain.” It further noted that the amended complaint is largely similar to one filed previously and highlighted Strum’s frequent changes in legal representation, suggesting issues with her claims.
In October, Lasry, Avenue Capital, and Gardner initiated a lawsuit against Strum, accusing her of harassment and blackmail in an effort to secure $50 million. Strum has denied these allegations. Richard Roth, Strum’s attorney, stated that the complaint outlines a troubling pattern of misconduct, asserting that Lasry exploited personal disclosures to create an emotional attachment that blurred professional lines, ultimately leading to unwanted physical contact and a quid pro quo harassment dynamic.
As the legal battle unfolds, both parties remain firm in their positions, with significant implications for their reputations and careers.
**FAQ Section:**
**Q: What are the main allegations against Marc Lasry?**
A: Gina Strum alleges that Marc Lasry subjected her to sexual harassment, emotional manipulation, and retaliation after she rejected his advances, leading to a countersuit seeking $100 million.
