Tyson's story about Fairfax simply fails the smell test.
Three things about it: first, she went to the hotel room with him, indicating the likelihood of prior intention and consensuality, or at least the lack of any indication of nonconsensuality shared with him at the time; second, she timed the release to maximise the damage to his reputation, which suggests she may be motivated by malice; third, she didn't go to the police at the time, which means either she didn't think anything bad had happened at the time or she guessed the police would be unlikely to pursue the case.
At least two of these three things are different to the Kavanaugh case.
For these reasons, I think the public should presume Fairfax's innocence. Otherwise, no one is safe from a spurious accusation in any sexual situation.
If there were multiple credible claims, I would take a different view.
Attorneys are basically making the first steps of any relationship in America subject to law. A person will need a signed contract before moving in for their first kiss.
| 