Le’Veon Bell, a former Steelers running back, was ordered to pay $25 million after a family member alleged Bell had abused her for years. Court documents said the woman alleged she was a minor when the abuse occurred, stating it happened when Bell would return home to Ohio.

She said the abuse took place during his college years and beyond, ending when she was 18 years old.

The suit was filed in March 2024.

In October of last year, a default judgment was entered, and a trial on damages proceeded without Bell present, court documents stated.

Bell denies all allegations and says he never received a summons and complaint regarding the suit.

Bell spent five seasons with the Pittsburgh Steelers from 2013 to 2018. He was drafted in the second round of the 2013 NFL draft and became a three-time Pro Bowl running back during his time in Pittsburgh.

In response to the case, the Pittsburgh Action Against Rape Association released a statement, saying, in part;

While every survivor’s journey is unique, we know that speaking out—especially when the accused is a high-profile individual—can be an incredibly difficult and emotional process.

A verdict like this validates a survivor’s experience, but it doesn’t erase the trauma they’ve endured. The public nature of these cases can also be retraumatizing, bringing increased scrutiny and pressure. That’s why organizations like PAAR exist—to provide survivors with the support, resources, and advocacy they need, no matter where they are in their healing journey.