Busta Rhymes Settles Assault Lawsuit With Former Assistant

Busta Rhymes Avoids Trial

The case began last year when Gables sued Rhymes in federal court, accusing him of assault, battery, and workplace mistreatment.

He also claimed the incident led to professional fallout, saying he was pushed out of opportunities in the hip-hop industry after speaking out.

Rhymes strongly denied the allegations and filed a counterclaim for defamation.

According to Billboard, his legal team described the lawsuit as "an attempted shakedown" and said Gables had made false statements that damaged his reputation and business opportunities.

"Smith did not assault or batter Gables," Rhymes' attorneys wrote in court filings, arguing that the claims were fabricated and not supported by evidence.

The dispute also involved a brief criminal investigation. Rhymes was arrested in January 2025 and issued a desk appearance ticket for third-degree assault, a misdemeanor, according to law enforcement reports.

However, prosecutors ultimately did not pursue criminal charges, and the case remained focused on the civil lawsuit.

At one point, Gables alleged the rapper reacted violently after receiving a phone call from his daughter while he was working, claiming Rhymes became enraged over a workplace rule restricting phone use.

After months of limited court activity, both sides agreed in January to pause proceedings and enter mediation. By late April, attorneys informed the court that a settlement had been reached in principle.