Judges in Wisconsin have upheld the dismissal of a lawsuit accusing author Neil Gaiman of sexual assault, ruling that the case should be heard in New Zealand, where the alleged incidents reportedly took place. The decision affirms an earlier ruling that declined to hear the claims in the United States.

The lawsuit was filed by Scarlett Pavlovich, who alleges that Gaiman, 65, raped her in Auckland in 2022 while she was working as a babysitter at his home. Pavlovich, 28, initially reported the alleged assault to New Zealand police, but authorities indicated in October 2023 that they were unlikely to proceed with charges. Following that decision, Pavlovich filed civil claims in multiple U.S. jurisdictions last year, seeking $7 million in damages. The lawsuits, filed in Wisconsin, Massachusetts, and New York, accused Gaiman of rape, coercion, and human trafficking, while also naming his wife, Amanda Palmer, accusing her of facilitating the abuse.

All three claims filed in the U.S. have been dismissed. In February, a Wisconsin judge ruled that the case should be heard in New Zealand. Pavlovich appealed that ruling, but a panel of three judges has now upheld the dismissal in Wisconsin. The case filed in Massachusetts remains under appeal.

Gaiman has denied all allegations, stating publicly that he has never engaged in non-consensual sexual activity. On his blog, he acknowledged imperfections but rejected any wrongdoing.

Pavlovich’s attorneys maintain their commitment to pursuing justice and are reportedly considering further legal options. Her New York-based lawyer, Thomas Neville, characterized recent research on victims’ responses to sexual violence as consistent with Pavlovich’s behavior and communications.

The case has attracted considerable attention, partly due to Gaiman’s high profile as the author of works including *American Gods*, *Good Omens*, *Anansi Boys*, and *The Sandman*. Following the allegations, several publishers and broadcasters distanced themselves from Gaiman, canceling projects involving him.

Those close to Gaiman have disputed Pavlovich’s claims of assault. Cat Mihos, a longtime aide to the author, pointed to extensive private messaging between Gaiman and Pavlovich as evidence of a consensual relationship. According to Mihos, the exchanges—comprising thousands of words over several months—showed mutual participation and affection.

Pavlovich’s claims include detailed descriptions of repeated physical abuse, including an incident on Valentine’s Day when she alleges Gaiman assaulted her forcibly. Conversely, some messages sent by Pavlovich after the alleged incidents include affectionate language and suggest ongoing willingness, a point cited by Gaiman’s supporters.

Neville accused Gaiman of avoiding a trial on the merits by seeking dismissal on procedural grounds, suggesting that the legal fight remains unresolved and emphasizing the complexity of assessing the evidence without a jury’s consideration.