Photo credit: www.cbc.ca
A jury determined on Thursday that rapper Soulja Boy is liable for sexually assaulting and inflicting both physical and emotional abuse on a former assistant, resulting in over $4 million US awarded to the victim.
This ruling followed a three-week trial in Santa Monica, California, where the Los Angeles County jurors deliberated on the serious allegations against the 34-year-old artist, whose real name is DeAndre Cortez Way.
The jury found him responsible for charges including assault, sexual battery, and intentional infliction of emotional distress, but did not hold him liable for false imprisonment or other claims. The financial compensation includes approximately $4 million US in compensatory damages, in addition to $250,000 US in punitive damages.
Neama Rahmani, the attorney representing the plaintiff, remarked, “Today’s verdict marks the beginning of justice for Soulja Boy’s victims and others facing similar issues within the music industry.”
In contrast, lead defense attorney Rickey Ivie expressed that they believe the verdict lacked appropriate evidential support. He stated, “It is unfortunate that misconceptions and biases surrounding culture influenced the trial. Mr. Way is committed to pursuing post-trial options to seek a fair resolution.”
The woman involved in this case was not named in the lawsuit filed in 2021, and The Associated Press typically withholds the identities of individuals who allege sexual abuse.
Details of the Allegations
The plaintiff asserted that she began her employment with Soulja Boy in 2018, with an agreement of $500 US a week for various domestic tasks including cleaning and cooking. However, she claims she did not receive any payment for her work.
After the two commenced a romantic relationship, the lawsuit alleges that he soon began to subject her to a pattern of abuse, involving rape, physical violence, and threats of severe harm. The lawsuit indicates that despite the violence, she felt manipulated into maintaining the relationship until 2020.
Furthermore, upon returning to collect her belongings months after leaving the relationship, the plaintiff alleges that she experienced further assault and rape.
Soulja Boy initially rose to fame with his 2007 hit “Crank That (Soulja Boy),” which topped the Billboard Hot 100 and earned him a Grammy nomination for best rap song.
Source
www.cbc.ca