Singer Katy Perry is currently embroiled in a legal dispute concerning a property she purchased in California four years ago. The lawsuit involves Carl Wescott, an 85-year-old combat veteran who is receiving mental health treatment. Perry’s recent decision to sue him for $5.5 million has sparked considerable backlash online.
Details of the Lawsuit
After initially offering $13.5 million, Katy ultimately paid $15 million for a Santa Barbara home from Wescott in 2020. However, she has now filed legal documents asserting that she is owed over $5.5 million for damages allegedly incurred by the mansion. Wescott had previously filed a lawsuit against Bernie Gudvi, Perry’s business manager, arguing that the contract should be invalidated because he was “heavily medicated following back surgery” at the time of signing. Nevertheless, Katy chose not to rescind the agreement, and in 2023, the court ruled in her favor, allowing her to keep the house. In the three years since the purchase, Perry claims the property has suffered significant damage, prompting her to seek compensation for repairs. Her case for damages is set to be presented in the second phase of the trial, which both parties are currently preparing for.
Wescott’s Response
Wescott’s legal team has ridiculed Perry’s $5.5 million damage claim, stating in court filings, “This is the house that Katy Perry bought — she is not entitled to a disguised remodel at Mr. Wescott’s expense.” Reports indicate that Perry has summoned 25 witnesses to testify regarding Wescott’s alleged negligence in maintaining the property. However, Wescott’s attorneys argue that “Mr. Wescott, who is elderly, has been suffering from dementia in a residential mental health facility since September 2021.” They emphasize that although the court mandated Wescott to sell the house, Perry only compensated him $9 million of the agreed $15 million price. They assert that Wescott deserves the opportunity to adequately prepare for discovery and trial in light of Perry’s “new army of expert witnesses.”
The internet reaction to Perry’s actions has been largely negative, with many commentators accusing her of “exploiting” the elderly veteran. Critics suggest that she and her legal team should demonstrate greater respect toward Wescott. Conversely, some supporters argue that Perry should be acknowledged, as the court affirmed her right to the property.
