The lawsuit relates to Bieber’s behavior while living in a gated community in Calabasas, a famed celebrity enclave. Ex-neighbor Jeffrey Schwartz complains of being terrorized by Bieber’s loud parties, drug use and aggressive driving, according to Fox News. So far, so predictable.
Bieber living up to stereotypes
As well as throwing parties and generally being obnoxious, it is alleged that the singer spit in Schwartz’s face during a disagreement, and the family are seeking over $25,000 in damages for assault and battery, trespassing and infliction of emotional distress claims. Bieber also apparently damaged the family home by throwing eggs at it last year.
Following that incident, Bieber was charged with vandalism, for which he is still on probation. However he has since paid the family around $80,000 in restitution for the damage he caused. I’m not sure what part of a house you have to hit with an egg to cause $80,000 of damage, or maybe the window cleaners of Calabasas are just incredibly well-paid.
The alleged emotional distress was caused by Bieber’s loud parties and regular marijuana use during the time when he lived next door. More seriously, it is said that Bieber’s bodyguards shouted anti-Semitic insults at Schwartz, and the family were threatened by fans of the singer after making a complaint.
A changing attitude?
“During his continued residence at the property … Mr. Bieber and his employees, agents and acquaintances continued to harass, threaten and intimidate plaintiffs and their family at every opportunity without justification, basis, reason or excuse,” the lawsuit reads.
Bieber’s publicist Melissa Victor has so far not responded to a request for comment on the lawsuit, which was first reported by celebrity gossip site TMZ. It’s been a tough week for Bieber, who was thoroughly roasted on Comedy Central last Saturday.
It seems like Bieber may finally be growing up and taking responsibility for his actions, perhaps spurred on by that most public dressing down. He took the opportunity to make an apologetic speech, in which he stated: “I’ve lost some of my best qualities. For that, I am sorry. I’m looking forward to being someone who you guys can all look at and be proud of.”
I don’t think I will ever feel a surge of pride if I ever inadvertently catch sight of Justin Bieber, but at least he doesn’t seem to be reveling in his teenage bad-boy image. And his neighbors must be glad to see the back of him.
