50 Cent ordered to pay Rick Ross' ex-girlfriend $5 million for posting sex tape
theGrio REPORT - Rapper 50 Cent has been hit with a $5 million verdict in the case of a Florida woman who alleges that he "destroyed" her reputation when he posted a sex tape online without her knowledge.
Rapper 50 Cent has been hit with a $5 million verdict in the case of a Florida woman who alleges that he “destroyed” her reputation when he posted a sex tape online without her knowledge.
After an hour of deliberation, the jury decided to fine 50 Cent $2.5 million in damages for violating Lastonia Leviston’s civil rights for using her image without her permission, and $2.5 million for intentional infliction of emotional distress.
The jury will be weighing punitive damages against the rapper as well, which means the number could go up.
The judge in this case ordered lawyers to look through financial statements and tax returns for 50 Cent to determine his financial situation and informed the jury that punitive damages could be set at a high price range in order not only to punish the rapper for his actions but also to discourage anyone else “from indulging in similar conduct in the future.”
Leviston’s lawyer, Philip Freidin, has asked the jury for a $20 million decision because 50 Cent had “destroyed” his client’s reputation and caused her overwhelming humiliation.
The tape in question had been released online in an attempt by 50 Cent to get back at rival Rick Ross, who had fathered a child by Leviston.
