In a significant legal decision, rapper Soulja Boy, whose real name is DeAndre Cortez Way, has been found liable in a civil lawsuit filed by his former personal assistant, identified as Jane Doe. A California jury awarded her over $4 million in compensatory damages for claims of sexual assault, physical abuse, and emotional distress.
Background of the Case
The lawsuit, initiated in January 2021, alleges that Jane Doe began working for Soulja Boy in December 2018 for $500 a week. Shortly after, she claims he began sending unsolicited explicit images and entered into a brief consensual relationship that turned violent. The lawsuit details multiple incidents of physical and sexual violence, including being punched unconscious and locked in a room without hot water. People.com
Jury’s Verdict
After a three-week trial in Santa Monica, California, the jury found Soulja Boy liable for assault, sexual battery, and intentional infliction of emotional distress. They awarded Jane Doe over $4 million in compensatory damages. The jury did not find him liable for false imprisonment and other accusations.
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Statements from Both Parties
Jane Doe‘s attorney expressed satisfaction with the jury’s decision, stating that they believed her claims of assault. Conversely, Soulja Boy has denied all allegations, expressing his frustration over being held civilly liable without a criminal conviction. He stated, “The district attorney never filed charges. I was never charged or convicted of this, criminally. So, to be accused of this civilly is beyond me. I’ve never done any of the things they’re accusing me of. I just feel like this is very unfair.”
Broader Implications
This case has brought attention to the challenges faced by personal assistants in the entertainment industry, highlighting issues of power dynamics and workplace abuse. The verdict underscores the importance of holding individuals accountable for misconduct, regardless of their celebrity status.
Next Steps
The case now progresses to the punitive damages phase, where additional financial penalties may be imposed on Soulja Boy. This ruling follows a 2023 civil judgment that ordered him to pay $235,900 in a separate assault and kidnapping case involving a different accuser.
