Haggis’ defense eyes accuser’s emails at rape lawsuit trial

By JENNIFER PELTZ
Associated Press

NEW YORK (AP) — Filmmaker Paul Haggis’ lawyers are seeking to undermine the credibility of a publicist who accused him of rape. His lawyers began cross-examining her on Friday in her rape lawsuit against the Oscar-winning screenwriter. A defense attorney asked her about her definition of flirtation and her communications with Haggis before the alleged rape in 2013. She has testified that she didn’t flirt with him and had no romantic feelings toward Haggis. She said she unequivocally told him as much before the encounter. Questioned by Haggis’ lawyer, she said she probably has flirted with people where there’s no romantic interest. Haggis says that what happened between them was consensual.