Lawsuit Against Declyn “Dex” Lauper Expands to Include Father David Thornton

New legal developments have emerged in the ongoing sexual assault lawsuit involving Declyn Lauper, the son of singer Cyndi Lauper and actor David Thornton.

As of March 24, 2026, a woman who previously accused Declyn Lauper of sexual assault has updated her civil lawsuit to name David Thornton as a defendant. While Lauper remains the primary accused, the addition of his father suggests the plaintiff’s legal team is seeking to hold others accountable, possibly under claims related to oversight or responsibility.

The case dates back to May 2024, when an anonymous plaintiff alleged that Lauper sexually assaulted her during a 2022 incident. In the original filing, the woman claimed she “felt her life was in danger” at the time.

In February 2025, Lauper filed for Chapter 7 bankruptcy just days before a scheduled mediation hearing in the civil case. The plaintiff’s attorney criticized the timing, calling it a “convenient” move that could delay the legal process. Despite the bankruptcy filing, the lawsuit has continued to move forward in court.

The recent decision to expand the lawsuit marks a new phase in the case, though specific legal arguments for including Thornton have not been publicly detailed.

Neither Cyndi Lauper nor David Thornton has issued a public statement addressing the updated claims. Lauper, who performs under the name “Dex,” has faced prior legal issues, including a 2022 arrest related to unauthorized use of a vehicle.

The case remains ongoing, with further proceedings expected as the civil litigation continues to develop.