"Cheer" Star Jerry Harris Sued By Family For "Child Sexual Exploitation & Abuse"

BYErika Marie3.8K Views
Link Copied to Clipboard!
Frazer Harrison / Staff / Getty Images
Jerry Harris
The lawsuit reportedly claims that the Netflix star not only solicited sexual contact from two teen boys but also sent sexually explicit photos.

Netflix's breakout star Jerry Harris's legal troubles continue to mount. Yesterday (September 14), we reported that 21-year-old Jerry Harris was being investigated by the FBI over accusations that he attempted to solicit a minor for sexual activities. A report by TMZ added that Harris was also being looked into for the possession of child pornography, and it's now being shared that the Cheer star has been hit with a lawsuit by two of his alleged victims, now aged 15. Both teen boys were 13-years-old at the time of their alleged abuse.

Cheer took home two Emmy awards as the docuseries put college students in the limelight, and since rising in popularity, Harris has rubbed elbows with the likes of Oprah Winfrey and Ellen DeGeneres. According to CNN, Harris is being sued for "child sexual exploitation and abuse," and the lawsuit states that Harris "exploited his popularity and position of fame with young male cheer athletes" in the time "leading up to, during, and following the distribution of the 'Cheer' docuseries."

Jerry Harris is accused of engaging in sexual conversations with the minors, requesting sexually explicit photos, as well as sending "sexually explicit photos and videos of himself to Plaintiffs." The Cheer star is also accused of "soliciting sexual conduct with these boys" at cheer competitions. Harris worked as a coach and trainer for cheer-based companies. 

Meanwhile, Harris has released a statement through his representative. "We categorically dispute the claims made against Jerry Harris, which are alleged to have occurred when he was a teenager. We are confident that when the investigation is completed the true facts will be revealed."

[via][via]


About The Author
Erika Marie is a seasoned journalist, editor, and ghostwriter who works predominantly in the fields of music, spirituality, mental health advocacy, and social activism. The Los Angeles editor, storyteller, and activist has been involved in the behind-the-scenes workings of the entertainment industry for nearly two decades. E.M. attempts to write stories that are compelling while remaining informative and respectful. She's an advocate of lyrical witticism & the power of the pen. Favorites: Motown, New Jack Swing, '90s R&B, Hip Hop, Indie Rock, & Punk; Funk, Soul, Harlem Renaissance Jazz greats, and artists who innovate, not simply replicate.
...