Rapper Busta Rhymes is fighting back against allegations from his former assistant, filing a countersuit in federal court for defamation. The lawsuit follows claims by Dashiel Gables that the musician, born Trevor George Smith Jr., engaged in assault, battery, and emotional abuse during his employment.

Countersuit Details

According to court documents obtained by PEOPLE, the rapper filed a counterclaim on October 13, 2025, alleging that Gables’ previous statements were false and damaging.

“Smith did not assault or batter Gables. Gables knew the statements were false, or acted with reckless disregard for the truth, including by fabricating allegations of criminal conduct and violence, omitting exculpatory facts and deliberately ignoring contrary evidence,” the filing reads.

The filing further claims that Gables acted negligently in verifying the truth and that his actions caused “damage to reputation, goodwill, and standing in the music and advertising industries.” Busta Rhymes is seeking special and punitive damages, citing lost advertising campaigns and business opportunities as a result of the allegations.

Background on Gables’ Claims

Gables, who worked for Busta Rhymes from July 2024 until early 2025, initially filed a civil lawsuit in August 2025, alleging:

• Wage and hour violations
• Assault and battery
• Intentional infliction of emotional distress

Gables’ complaint claimed that the “Put Your Hands Where My Eyes Could See” artist allegedly spat in employees’ faces, grabbed clothing, and struck him on the back of the head. Gables also alleged verbal abuse and claimed he was punched twice for using his phone while on the clock in January 2025. He filed a police report and went to the hospital after the incident.

Busta Rhymes’ Response

Busta Rhymes has consistently denied the allegations.

“I completely and categorically deny these allegations. This is an attempted shakedown by a disgruntled former assistant,” he said in a statement to PEOPLE.

The Brooklyn DA’s office confirmed that the case related to the police report was ultimately sealed, closing the criminal proceedings.

Implications and Next Steps

The countersuit highlights ongoing tensions between high-profile artists and former staff members. Busta Rhymes’ legal team asserts that Gables’ claims were knowingly false, and the rapper is seeking compensation for the alleged damage to his career and public image.

As the legal battle unfolds, the case is expected to draw further attention from both the music industry and media outlets following previous reports about Gables’ accusations.