On Friday, December 6, 2024, the Los Angeles Times reported that former reality television star Judge Greg Mathis is facing a lawsuit from a city worker who alleges that Mathis threatened him with a firearm during a confrontation outside Mathis’ residence. The complaint, which has been drafted but not yet filed, is being pursued by Ricardo Acosta, who claims that Mathis assaulted him and caused emotional distress during the incident that occurred on July 25, 2023.

According to the allegations, Acosta was performing his duties for the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power when he parked a city dump truck in front of Mathis’ driveway. Mathis reportedly confronted Acosta, demanding that he move the truck. The complaint states that Mathis yelled, “Move the f— truck out of the way,” while standing directly behind the vehicle. Acosta attempted to ask Mathis to step aside as he maneuvered the truck, expressing concern that it might roll down the incline if put into drive.

The situation escalated when Mathis allegedly refused to move and told Acosta he “did not give a f—” and threatened to run him over. The confrontation intensified as Mathis reportedly retreated into his home, returned with a gun, and declared, “I will bust a cap,” which indicates a threat to shoot.

Acosta’s complaint asserts that the incident caused him significant emotional and financial harm, prompting him to seek medical treatment and legal assistance. He is pursuing compensatory damages for lost wages, retirement benefits, and general damages for mental anguish and emotional distress.

In response to the allegations, Mathis’ attorney, Anahita Sedaghatfar, dismissed the lawsuit as an attempt to extort money from her client. She stated that the claims lack merit, emphasizing that the Los Angeles Police Department did not investigate the incident. Sedaghatfar indicated that should Acosta proceed with the lawsuit, Mathis would mount a vigorous defense and potentially file counterclaims against Acosta for his alleged illegal behavior and defamation.

Judge Greg Mathis is well-known as the host of “Judge Mathis,” a reality court show that aired for 24 seasons from September 13, 1999, to May 25, 2023. The case has attracted public interest due to Mathis’ celebrity status and the serious nature of the allegations against him.

 

 

Source: Los Angeles Times