Rapper Soulja Boy ordered to pay $4 million in a sexual assault case brought by his former assistant, but he denies all allegations and claims the lawsuit is financially motivated.
At a Glance
- A California jury found rapper Soulja Boy (DeAndre Cortez Way) liable for sexual battery, assault, and imprisonment
- His former assistant accused him of regular rape, beatings, and imprisonment while she was employed by him
- The woman testified that her weight dropped from 150lbs to 86lbs during their relationship
- Soulja Boy has publicly criticized the verdict, claiming it was not based on facts or substantial evidence
- This is not the first legal issue for the rapper; in 2023, he was ordered to pay $471,900 in a separate assault case
Jury Awards Millions to Former Assistant
A jury in Santa Monica, California, has ordered rapper Soulja Boy, whose real name is DeAndre Cortez Way, to pay $4.25 million to a woman who accused him of sexual assault and abuse. The verdict found Way liable for sexual battery, assault, imprisonment, intentional infliction of emotional distress, sexual harassment, and nonpayment of wages. The unnamed woman worked as Way’s personal assistant and filed the lawsuit in 2021, claiming she suffered regular rape and beatings during her employment with the rapper.
According to court documents, the woman testified that she lost nearly half her body weight during their time together, dropping from 150 pounds to just 86 pounds. She also alleged that Way took away her phone and driver’s license, effectively imprisoning her at times. Despite these serious allegations, the jury cleared Way of false imprisonment and constructive discharge charges, delivering a mixed verdict that has been controversial on both sides.
Victim’s Testimony Details Alleged Abuse
The woman’s testimony painted a disturbing picture of her time working for the rapper. She described feeling dehumanized and being subject to regular abuse. Text messages presented in court showed a complex relationship, with Way alternating between assigning typical assistant tasks and sending threatening messages. The woman claimed she remained in the relationship due to threats from Way, including potential harm to her or her family and the possible release of sexually explicit videos.
“I was about 86lbs when I managed to get away from him, I didn’t even feel human any more. I felt like an animal.” – Anonymous woman.
The woman’s attorney, Ron Zambrano, expressed satisfaction with the verdict, stating, “We’re happy our client was vindicated and the jury believed her claims of physical and sexual assault… We’re looking forward to moving on to the punitive damages phase of the case.” The legal team emphasized that their client had sought justice through multiple avenues before pursuing civil litigation.
Soulja Boy Denies Allegations
Way has vehemently denied all allegations against him, suggesting the lawsuit was financially motivated rather than a genuine pursuit of justice. In a social media video following the verdict, the rapper expressed frustration with the legal system and questioned why someone who had been sexually assaulted would seek financial compensation rather than criminal prosecution. He maintained that their relationship was consensual and criticized what he perceived as a flawed legal process.
“Today, I stand before you deeply disappointed in the verdict delivered in my case. I firmly believe that the decision made in court was not based on facts or substantial evidence, but rather on factors that were outside of my control. The truth was overshadowed by individuals such as the jury who were not present during the events in question. And I feel that the system allowed external influences to shape the outcome.” – Soulja Boy.
The accuser’s attorney countered Way’s claims, noting that his client did initially seek criminal charges. “Our client did want him locked up and gave law enforcement the same evidence back in 2021. But it’s not up to her to force the DA to do their job and actually file criminal charges. The DA made the decision and declined to do so,” said attorney Ronald Zambrano. This statement highlights the challenges many victims face when pursuing justice through the criminal justice system.
Pattern of Legal Troubles
This is not the first time Soulja Boy has faced serious legal consequences. In 2023, he was ordered to pay $471,900 to ex-girlfriend Kayla Myers in connection with a separate assault and kidnapping lawsuit. The mounting legal issues raise questions about the rapper’s behavior and the allegations against him. While Way continues to maintain his innocence in both cases, the financial judgments against him represent significant legal setbacks for the artist who rose to fame in 2007 with his hit single “Crank That.”
