Grammy award-winning producer and songwriter The-Dream is fighting back against a sexual assault lawsuit filed against him by seeking to have large parts of the case thrown out. The 47-year-old, known as Terius Gesteelde-Diamant, was accused of rape and sexual battery by former protégé Chanaaz Mangroe, who performed as Channii Monroe.
In response to the allegations, Mr. Gesteelde-Diamant, who has worked with big names like Beyoncé and Rihanna, denied the claims. His legal team filed to have the case dismissed, arguing that the allegations were a “shotgun pleading” that did not provide fair notice of the claims.
The term ‘shotgun pleading’ refers to a complaint that sets out multiple allegations without specificity. The lawyers representing Mr. Gesteelde-Diamant requested amendments to Ms. Mangroe’s complaint, stating that certain paragraphs were irrelevant and scandalous.
They are seeking to dismiss the rape claim, arguing that rape is not a separate civil cause of action under California law. Additionally, they argued that the sex trafficking claim lacked essential elements like a “commercial sex act.”
Furthermore, Mr. Gesteelde-Diamant’s legal team asked for his label, Contra Paris, LLC, to be removed from the suit due to jurisdictional issues. Attorney Desirée F. Moore stated that the complaint was filled with irrelevant allegations meant to tarnish Mr. Gesteelde-Diamant’s reputation.
According to the lawsuit filed in June, Ms. Mangroe alleges that Mr. Gesteelde-Diamant subjected her to violent sexual encounters, forced her to drink excessive amounts of alcohol, and raped her in a sprinter van. She is seeking damages for lost wages and emotional distress.
Mr. Gesteelde-Diamant, who has won eight Grammy Awards, refuted the claims in a statement to the New York Times, calling them untrue and defamatory. A representative for Ms. Mangroe stated that they are prepared to oppose the motions and proceed with the case. The legal battle continues as both parties stand their ground in this high-profile case.
