Man Allegedly Directed by Ye to Reside in Beach House

A civil trial involving Kanye West, now known as Ye, commenced on February 24, 2023, in downtown Los Angeles. The case centers around a lawsuit filed by Tony Saxon, who claims he sustained injuries while working on Ye’s Malibu mansion. Saxon alleges that Ye directed him to live at the site full-time, where he experienced erratic demands and pressures during the construction process.

Key Testimonies and Events

During his testimony, Saxon recounted an incident where Ye woke him in the early hours, questioning his dedication to work. He described feeling intimidated by Ye, who stood over him while he was resting. Saxon worked for the Grammy-winning artist for six weeks in September 2021, during which they frequently communicated through text messages, often addressing each other as “brother.”

Project Management and Demands

• Saxon was hired as a project manager to oversee an extensive renovation of a contemporary mansion designed by architect Tadao Ando.
• Ye purchased the home for $57.3 million, intending to transform it into an off-the-grid bunker.
• Key elements of the renovation included the removal of plumbing, wiring, and all windows to create a minimalistic aesthetic.

Saxon testified that his role expanded to include security duties, with Ye instructing him to stay onsite continuously. Further complicating the work environment, Saxon mentioned Ye’s demands for regular updates and his preference for an all-black worker uniform.

Safety Concerns and Allegations

Saxon described safety issues that arose during the project, including the use of generators that he believed posed a risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. His concerns reportedly led to his termination from the project.

Despite the challenges, Saxon revealed moments of kindness from Ye, including an occasion when Ye provided him access to a hotel for a much-needed shower.

Legal Proceedings

Attorney Andrew Cherkasky, representing Ye, argued that Saxon was an unlicensed contractor responsible for damaging the property. He contended that Saxon’s lack of permits and experience contributed to the project’s problems. Conversely, Saxon’s attorney, Ron Zambrano, highlighted that although medical records were lacking, the injuries Saxon claims to have sustained were serious and arose from unsafe work conditions.

The trial is anticipated to continue for several weeks, with both Ye and his wife, Bianca Censori, expected to testify. This case is part of a series of legal challenges Ye faces, following multiple lawsuits since 2022.