New York, NY - Thomas More Society has filed a civil lawsuit against Brianna Rivers on behalf of pro-life advocate, Savannah Craven Antao, after Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg’s office failed to prosecute Rivers who violently assaulted Savannah while peacefully discussing her pro-life beliefs during a ‘man on the street’ interview in Harlem.

The complaint alleges that Rivers punched Savannah in the face twice, including once with a cell phone, causing significant physical injuries and ongoing emotional trauma. According to the civil filing, Rivers also bragged about the assault on her social media accounts, mocked Savannah’s Christian beliefs, and even marketed merchandise celebrating the attack.

“Savannah was violently assaulted for peacefully expressing her pro-life beliefs and then humiliated all over again when the attacker went online to glorify it,” said Chris Ferrara, Senior Counsel at Thomas More Society. “The DA’s office had every opportunity to pursue justice and due to their incompetency or lack of will, failed to prosecute this vicious assault. Their refusal left us with no choice but to file civil action to hold Rivers accountable.”

The complaint details multiple acts of alleged assault, battery, menacing, and harassment, including hate-motivated conduct based on Savannah’s pro-life and Christian beliefs. It also alleges that the criminal case against Rivers was terminated due to prosecutorial neglect, clearing the way for her civil suit.

Savannah said she hopes the lawsuit will finally bring accountability.

“I was attacked in broad daylight while standing up for my pro-life beliefs, and the person who did it has been celebrating it online ever since,” said Savannah Craven Antao. “Alvin Bragg’s office completely failed to protect me and by refusing to prosecute her, they failed every New Yorker who deserves equal justice under the law. I’m grateful Thomas More Society is stepping in to make sure she is held responsible for her actions.”

The lawsuit seeks compensatory and punitive damages for assault, battery, and intentional infliction of emotional distress.

“Our system cannot function when violent offenders are rewarded with impunity simply because the victim is a Christian or a pro-life advocate,” Ferrara added. “We intend to prove every allegation in court and obtain full justice for Savannah.”