Carrot Top's lawyer has filed an emergency motion to prevent his alleged extortionist and former friend, Brian Evans, from filing more documents.
Attorney Ronnie Bitman asked a Florida court to enforce "immediate gatekeeping procedures" in Evans' ongoing case against the 61-year-old comedian, born Scott Thompson, according to documents obtained by USA TODAY. Bitman cited Thompson's Sept. 18 suicide attempt, which left him hospitalized.
"This is now an emergency in the most human sense," the motion read. "A public filing can become national news almost immediately. This has been Evans' modus operandi in repeatedly extorting Mr. Thompson with the threat ofexposing him to ill repute, false allegations, and salacious materials."
Lawyer says Carrot Top's mental state was impacted by Brian Evans' lawsuit
Bitman said Thompson's
mental health decline was a result of repeated threats by Evans that he will publicize an alleged sexually explicit video of the actor and other "private, personal secrets" in exchange for money.
According to emails submitted with the filing, Evans – who sued Thompson two years ago to reverse a previous settlement deal and is representing himself in the matter – has demanded millions of dollars between 2024 and the days leading up to Thompson's suicide attempt.
Calling Evans a "serial filer who abuses the Court system," Bitman said "ordinary remedies" for "after-the-fact relief is not enough." Bitman requested the court restrict Evans' ability to file any new documents without the court's approval, including barring him from the ability to e-file.
"The threatened injury here - continued publication of intensely private material on a docket monitored by national media - cannot be repaired after publication," Bitman added.
USA TODAY reached out to Evans for comment.
Carrot Top is hospitalized for attempting suicide
Thompson's publicist Jami Schlicher told USA TODAY in a Sept. 21 statement that he "remains hospitalized and under close medical care" but is "breathing on his own and continuing to improve, surrounded by his family and those closest to him."
The stand-up star – known for his curly red hair, satirical comedy and use of props – rose to fame in the '90s and has continued to build a successful career. When news of his suicide attempt was reported last week, Thompson was on his long-running comedy residency at Luxor Hotel and Casino.
"Humor has always been such an important part of who Scott is and how he connects with people, and that remains true today as he shares moments of humor with the medical staff caring for him," Schlicher said. "Many messages from fans have been shared with Scott, including stories from people about how his comedy helped them through difficult periods in their own lives. Hearing those stories and feeling that support has meant a great deal to him during his recovery."The statement concluded, "Scott and his family remain deeply grateful for the extraordinary kindness and continue to ask that his privacy be respected."
If you or someone you know may be struggling with suicidal thoughts, you can call 988 any time day or night, or chat online. Crisis Text Line also provides free, 24/7, confidential support via text message to people in crisis when they dial 741741.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Carrot Top lawyer says comedian was extorted days before suicide attempt
