Tara Reade, who accused Joe Biden of sexual assault in 2020, is seeking legal recourse against the Department of Justice (DOJ), claiming a violation of her rights following her public allegations. Through her attorney, Reade filed a tort claim seeking $10 million in damages, citing “infliction of emotional distress and anxiety” due to an “FBI operation” conducted in the aftermath of her accusations against the then-presidential candidate.
The claim involves allegations that the FBI violated Reade’s Fourth Amendment rights, the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA), and state privacy laws. Notably, a July 2020 grand jury subpoena was issued to Twitter by the US District Court for the Eastern District of California, demanding records related to Reade’s accounts.
Reade’s legal action brings to light several disturbing incidents she alleges were orchestrated by the FBI, including disruptions to her bank accounts and the mysterious disappearance of a manuscript detailing her claims against Biden. These incidents, she argues, were part of a broader effort to silence and intimidate her.
Her attorney, Jonathan Levy, emphasized the need for accountability, drawing parallels between Reade’s situation and legal actions taken against former President Trump and Rudy Giuliani. Levy stated, “The United States should not have a two-tiered justice system,” underscoring the significance of addressing the alleged misuse of the FBI against Reade.
The DOJ has declined to comment on the matter. Meanwhile, Reade continues to seek the release and expungement of any FBI files on her, having previously contacted the DOJ Inspector General’s Office with this request.
Reade’s allegations against Biden date back to an incident in 1993 when she worked as a Senate staffer for him. Biden has denied these claims. Following her public allegations, Reade’s life has taken dramatic turns, including her recent move to Russia, citing safety concerns. This lawsuit against the DOJ marks a significant escalation in her quest for justice and accountability.