A criminal case against a Bronx woman accused of assaulting a pro-life activist in Manhattan has been dismissed after prosecutors failed to meet a crucial filing deadline. Attorneys for the victim say the move by District Attorney Alvin Bragg’s office effectively ended the criminal proceedings and opened the door to civil litigation.

The incident dates back to April, when 30-year-old Brianna Rivers allegedly sucker-punched pro-life activist and journalist Savannah Craven Antao during a street interview conducted on behalf of the group Live Action. Video of the altercation quickly spread online, fueling debates over free speech and political protest.

Rivers was charged with second-degree assault in connection with the confrontation. However, according to the Thomas More Society, a Chicago-based public-interest law firm representing Craven Antao, prosecutors failed to provide key evidence within the time frame required by law. That lapse led the Manhattan District Attorney’s office to dismiss the case in July.

In response to the dismissal, the Thomas More Society announced plans to pursue a civil lawsuit against Rivers on behalf of Craven Antao. The group said the victim deserves accountability and intends to seek justice through the courts. Meanwhile, the decision by Bragg’s office has drawn criticism from pro-life advocates, who argue the case highlights broader concerns about prosecutorial priorities in Manhattan.

With the criminal charges off the table, the focus now shifts to civil court, where Craven Antao’s attorneys say they will seek damages for the alleged assault. The viral incident remains a flashpoint in ongoing tensions surrounding abortion activism and public demonstrations in New York City.