Rapper Busta Rhymes, whose legal name is Trevor George Smith Jr., has filed a federal counterclaim accusing his former assistant of defamation. The suit comes after his ex-assistant, Dashiel Gables, alleged assault, battery, wage violations and emotional distress earlier this year.
Rhymes Denies All Wrongdoing, Accuses Gables of Fabrication
In papers filed Oct. 13, Rhymes vigorously denies the accusations. He asserts that Gables “knew the statements were false, or acted with reckless disregard for the truth, including by fabricating allegations of criminal conduct and violence.” He also claims Gables omitted “exculpatory facts” and ignored contrary evidence.
Rhymes’ attorneys argue the initial lawsuit damaged his reputation and cost him business chances. The counterclaim seeks both special and punitive damages, citing willful, malicious conduct by Gables.
“Gables’ conduct was willful, wanton, and malicious,” the filing reads. It adds that the alleged defamation led to lost advertising campaigns and other professional harm.
Original Suit Alleges Abuse and Wage Violations
Gables originally filed his complaint in August, alleging that Rhymes verbally abused staff, made unreasonable demands, and physically assaulted him. He claimed he was punched twice after being reprimanded for using his phone while working. Gables also alleged that Rhymes withheld proper wages, failed to comply with overtime rules and blacklisted him after he filed a police report.
He described that in January 2025, while working in Brooklyn, he was verbally scolded and then struck. Gables says he sought medical treatment and filed a police report afterward. He demands compensation for lost wages, emotional distress and reputational damage.
In response to those allegations, Rhymes issued a statement: “I completely and categorically deny these allegations.” He characterized the original suit as “an attempted shake-down by a disgruntled former assistant.”
The counterclaim escalates a high-profile dispute into a defamation battle. If Rhymes successfully shows Gables acted maliciously or recklessly, he could recover significant damages. But that depends on whether a court finds the original claims false or unsubstantiated.
Gables’ side has not yet responded publicly to the counterclaim. As of now, Rhymes and Gables’ legal representatives have declined further comment.