A lawsuit filed by Ann Altman, sister of OpenAI CEO Sam Altman, accusing him of childhood sexual abuse has been dismissed by a U.S. District Judge. Judge Zachary Bluestone ruled on Tuesday to dismiss the case with prejudice, meaning it cannot be refiled in the same court.
Background of the Lawsuit
Ann Altman had filed the lawsuit last year, alleging that her brother, Sam Altman, had subjected her to long-term sexual abuse during their childhood. The case gained public attention following reports from The Guardian.
Reason for Dismissal
According to court documents cited by The Guardian, Judge Bluestone stated that Ann Altman failed to appear for an independent medical examination and comply with other court-ordered deadlines over the past year. The judge noted that these actions were taken despite prior warnings that such non-compliance would lead to the case being dismissed.
Family’s Response
When the case was initially filed last year, Sam Altman, along with their mother and several siblings, issued a joint statement. They vehemently denied the allegations, stating, “Annie has made devastating and completely false accusations against our family, and especially Sam. All of these claims are fabrications. This has caused our entire family immense pain.”
Legal Proceedings and Attorney Withdrawal
Judge Bluestone approved Sam Altman’s motion to dismiss the case with prejudice. While the dismissal prevents Ann Altman from bringing the same lawsuit again in this particular court, the judge did not grant Sam Altman’s request for legal fees and litigation expenses.
Santos Perez, Ann Altman’s attorney, withdrew from the case earlier this month. When contacted by The Guardian, Perez stated, “I am no longer authorized to comment on this case, but I continue to believe in Annie.”
