Nick Carter countersues Melissa Schuman for THIS much money, denying sexual assault allegations

Backstreet Boys' Nick Carter countersues sexual assault accuser Melissa Schuman.

Backstreet Boys member Nick Carter has vehemently denied sexual assault allegations made by Melissa Schuman, a former member of the girl group Dream. In a recent legal response per court docs obtained by PEOPLE, Carter not only denied the accusations but has also countersued Schuman for $2.5 million, alleging defamation.

Schuman had previously filed a lawsuit in April 2023, claiming Carter sexually assaulted her in his apartment in 2003 after they filmed a movie together. Carter, however, insists their encounter was consensual and alleges Schuman's accusations are an attempt to revive her career.

In his countersuit, Carter accuses Schuman of making false statements and defamatory remarks on various platforms since 2017. He argues that her allegations have damaged his reputation and impacted his business opportunities.

Schuman's attorney has responded to Carter's filing, stating that his approach is to attack the victims rather than address the sexual assault claims.

This legal battle highlights the complexities of addressing sexual assault allegations, especially in the public eye, and underscores the ongoing conversation around the #MeToo movement.