Actor Matthew Fox files counterclaim against Cleveland bus driver, says he didn't strike her

CLEVELAND - Former “Lost” actor Matthew Fox has filed charges against the Cleveland bus driver who said he punched her, saying she attacked him – and he’s asking for damages.

In the Nov. 3 civil counterclaim filing, Fox’s attorney Ian Friedman countered every point made in the civil filing by the bus driver, Heather Bormann, and said Fox denies all of the allegations. He then filed civil charges against Bormann for defamation/slander, assault and battery, and abuse of process.

A police report said Fox tried to hitch a ride on a private party bus in The Flats on Aug. 27. When Bormann told him no, Fox allegedly punched her in the chest and stomach. According to the report, Bormann then retaliated by punching Fox in the mouth, cutting his lip and possibly breaking her hand.

Fox had been at Christie's Cabaret -- a strip club -- on Main Avenue prior to the incident, sources inside the club told NewsChannel5.

Fox talked with police for a short time but was not arrested. He was handed over to a friend at the scene and taken by taxi to his hotel.

On Sept. 16, the Cleveland mayor’s office said the city prosecutor will not charge Fox.

Following that announcement, Bormann’s attorney said she was filing a civil complaint for assault, battery and intentional infliction of emotional distress. She was asking for a dollar amount in excess of $25,000 for each one.

In her filing, Bormann said Fox, who was intoxicated, “suddenly, and without provocation” attacked her with his fist after she told him he would have to find another ride.

Fox has since claimed that he did not strike Bormann – only Bormann struck him in the face and head, causing serious physical harm to him.

In his counterclaim, Fox alleged Bormann made “false and malicious” statements to various media outlets about him that damaged his reputation have caused him to lose income and employment opportunities.

WEB EXTRA: Read Fox's counterclaim here: http://5.wews.com/DGj

Fox is asking for an amount exceeding $25,000 for each punitive and compensatory damages.

There’s no word yet when this case will go before a judge.