Football Agent Jonathan Barnett Sued in US for Trafficking, Rape, Torture

Jonathan Barnett, a leading British sports agent known for representing top footballers like Gareth Bale and Jack Grealish, has been sued in a U.S. court over allegations of human trafficking, rape, and torture. The civil complaint, filed in California by an anonymous woman referred to as Jane Doe, accuses Barnett of trafficking her from Australia to the UK in 2017, repeatedly raping her more than 39 times, and holding her as a sex slave for six years while making threats to her and her children's lives. Barnett’s former employer, Creative Artists Agency (CAA), is also named in the lawsuit for allegedly assisting Barnett in maintaining control over the woman. Barnett denies all allegations, stating the claims have no basis in reality and pledging to vigorously defend himself in court. The complaint details severe abuse, including degrading acts and strict control, and accuses Barnett of using his power and resources to coerce and intimidate the woman. This case highlights accusations of institutional abuse involving one of the most powerful figures in sports management.