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Terius "The-Dream" Gesteelde-Diamant, a musician known for writing hits for Rihanna and Beyoncé, is facing a lawsuit in California federal court from Chanaaz Mangroe, professionally known as Channii Monroe, who alleges he raped her after promising to help launch her musical career.

Mangroe filed the complaint Tuesday against The-Dream and Epic Records, owned by Sony. She claims The-Dream used his influence in the music industry to coax her into an abusive relationship.

"Choosing to speak out about the trauma I survived has been one of the most difficult decisions of my life, but ultimately, what Dream did to me made it impossible to live the life I envisioned for myself and pursue my goals as a singer and songwriter," Mangroe said in a statement. "Ultimately, my silence has become too painful, and I realized that I need to tell my story to heal."

Mangroe, who was pursuing a music career, says The-Dream promised her recording contracts and hit songs but instead used her, engaging in violent sex, forcing her to drink large quantities of alcohol, and choking her. She alleges he also raped her.

The complaint includes counts of sex trafficking, sexual battery, and rape. The-Dream has denied the allegations, calling them "untrue and defamatory" in a statement to The New York Times.

"I oppose all forms of harassment and have always strived to help people realize their career goals," he said. "As someone committed to making a positive impact on my fellow artists and the world at large, I am deeply offended and saddened by these accusations."

Epic Records did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Mangroe is represented by Douglas Wigdor, Meredith A. Firetog, and Monica Hincken of Wigdor LLP, as well as Robert J. Girard II and Omar H. Bengali of Girard Bengali APC.

Counsel information for The-Dream and Epic Records was not immediately available.

The case is Chanaaz Mangroe v. Terius Gesteelde-Diamant et al., case number 2:24-cv-04639, in the U.S. District Court for the Central District of California.