50 Cent Sex Tape Trial News Update: Rapper Ordered to Pay Mother of Rick Ross' Child $2 Million in Punitive Damages
Rap star 50 Cent, born Curtis Jackson, was ordered to pay a Florida woman $2 million in punitive damages on top of the $5 million she has already been awarded over Jackson's violation of her civil rights.
A Manhattan jury found on Friday Jackson should pay Lastonia Leviston the additional sum, after the rapper was found guilty of posting her private sex tape online. 50 Cent allegedly posted the video in an effort to antagonize rival rapper Rick Ross, whom Leviston has a young daughter with.
According to the New York Daily News, throughout the proceedings the jury heard testimony that indicated 50 obtained the tape from one of Leviston's former boyfriends and the man she was seen being intimate with on the video. After gaining control of the tape, Jackson photoshopped an image of his "Pimpin Curly" alter-ego in place of Leviston's partner and added vile, running dialogue to the scene.
"I've been served justice by the courts and vindicated by God," Leviston told reporters after the proceedings had ended. "I hope he learned a lesson," she added of the rap star.
The $2 million award was less than the $15 million Leviston's lawyer had asked for earlier in the day, but also significantly more than the $700,000 Jackson's attorneys had staunchly recommended.
"We had to compromise," said jury foreman Tom Evans. "Some wanted (to award) more, some wanted less. What we came up with seemed to be balanced kind of equation."
All of jurors, however, were in agreement in denying 50's story about suddenly being destitute. Jackson filed for bankruptcy last week, citing millions in debt and contending much of his lavish lifestyle is actually make believe.
"He has it," said juror Sylvia Rodriguez. He's 50 Cent. You know he has more than 50 cents. I don't think he's broke. If anything he has it hidden," she said.
Jackson's lawyer, James Renard, indicated his client plans to appeal.
"Although we appreciate the jury's service, we are disappointed in the result," he said. "Our client intends to file post-verdict, prejudgment motions which we believe should reduce the size of the award."
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