Mariano Rivera, a Hall of Fame pitcher celebrated for his unmatched career and charitable work, and his wife, Clara, are denying allegations in a lawsuit accusing them of covering up sexual abuse. The lawsuit, filed in New York, paints a disturbing picture of events that allegedly occurred at a church-affiliated summer camp and the Riveras’ home in 2018. The couple, through their attorney, has labeled the claims as entirely baseless.
The allegations stem from a lawsuit filed by a plaintiff identified as Jane Doe. According to the complaint, Jane Doe was sexually abused by another minor in the dorms and showers of the Ignite Life Center, a summer camp in Gainesville, Fla., linked to the Riveras’ church. Additional incidents were alleged to have occurred at a barbecue hosted by the Riveras at their home in Rye, N.Y. The suit claims Clara Rivera was informed of the abuse but failed to act and alleges that both Mariano and Clara intimidated Jane Doe into silence.
The Riveras, through their attorney Joseph A. Ruta, have vigorously denied the allegations. “The very first time they heard about these allegations was nearly four years after the alleged incident,” Ruta explained, citing letters received in 2022 and 2023 from attorneys seeking financial settlements. Ruta described the claims as riddled with inaccuracies and expressed confidence that they would not hold up in court.
Further complicating the case, the lawsuit alleges that Jane Doe experienced additional abuse in 2021 and 2022 involving the son of an associate pastor at the Riveras’ church in New Rochelle, N.Y. These incidents included alleged graphic electronic communications and continued inappropriate contact, adding weight to the accusations against those connected to the church.
Rivera’s 19-year MLB career was defined by excellence, earning him five World Series titles and a place in Cooperstown as the all-time saves leader. Off the field, Rivera cultivated a reputation as a community leader and philanthropist. The lawsuit, however, represents an unprecedented challenge to that legacy.
As both sides prepare for a lengthy legal process, Rivera’s standing as a revered sports icon hangs in the balance. The Riveras remain steadfast in their denial, with their attorney emphasizing that they “do not tolerate child abuse of any kind.” How this lawsuit unfolds could have significant implications for Rivera’s post-baseball life and reputation.
