Mark Sanchez, Fox Sued Over Westin Hotel Assault

On Oct. 4 outside the Westin Hotel in Indianapolis, 69-year-old delivery driver Perry Tole sued former NFL quarterback and Fox analyst Mark Sanchez and Fox Corporation, alleging assault and battery by Sanchez and negligent hiring, retention and supervision by Fox. The complaint says Sanchez appeared intoxicated, tried to enter Tole's truck without permission, blocked his phone and shoved him, prompting Tole to use pepper spray and ultimately stab Sanchez in what Tole says was self-defense; both men were injured and Sanchez was hospitalized with stab wounds. Sanchez was arrested at the hospital, initially faced misdemeanor charges and was later charged with a Level 5 felony battery for serious bodily injury; he waived an initial hearing while his lawyers sought a pretrial conference. Tole alleges significant head, jaw and neck injuries, including permanent disfigurement, loss of function and emotional distress, and is seeking compensatory and punitive damages and a jury trial. The suit contends Fox should have known of Sanchez's alleged propensity for drinking or harmful conduct and therefore bears liability under theories of negligent hiring, retention and supervision. Legal observers say the dispute over Fox's liability will turn on evidence developed in discovery and how Indiana law applies.