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Jennifer An, who appeared on the 13th season of the reality competition show, alleges that West, now legally known as Ye, assaulted her on the set of a music video for La Roux's track In for the Kill. The incident reportedly took place at the Chelsea Hotel in September 2010. In her suit, An accuses West of choking her, smothering her face, and forcing his fingers into her throat in a manner mimicking "pornographic gagging" acts. She claims the assault left her feeling humiliated and emotionally distressed. "Though nearly everyone on set believed that defendant West had sexually assaulted plaintiff," the complaint reads, "defendants Universal Music and Stink [Digital] failed to investigate or take remedial action."

Broader Claims Against UMG and Stink Digital

An is suing Universal Music Group (UMG) and Stink Digital USA LLC alongside West, alleging that both companies ignored red flags about his behavior. The suit claims the companies "turned a blind eye" to the incident and asserts they should have anticipated such misconduct based on West's prior actions. The complaint also references West’s controversial music video for Monster, which was criticized for its depictions of violence against women. An argues that this prior behavior demonstrated West's disregard for women and should have prompted stronger oversight during subsequent productions.

Details of the Alleged Assault

According to the lawsuit, West took control of the In for the Kill video shoot upon arriving on set. He reportedly singled An out, demanding, "Give me the Asian girl," before instructing her to sit in front of the camera. An alleges that West proceeded to choke her, smear her makeup, and force his fingers into her mouth while shouting, "This is art. This is f***ing art. I am like Picasso." The lawsuit contends the incident exemplifies West's pattern of excusing harmful behavior as artistic expression.

Legal Claims and Compensation Sought

An's lawsuit cites violations of New York City’s Gender-Motivated Violence Protection Act and seeks compensatory and punitive damages for her physical, emotional, and mental suffering. She is also asking the court to hold the defendants accountable for gender-motivated violence and to cover attorney fees.

Broader Legal Troubles for Kanye West

This lawsuit adds to the mounting legal issues facing West in recent years. Earlier this month, a former project manager accused him of antisemitic tirades and other abusive behavior, including termination for refusing to begin unpermitted construction for Donda Academy.