Busta Rhymes is speaking out after his former assistant filed a lawsuit accusing the rapper of assault and wage violations.
Dashiel Gables, who also goes by Divine, claims Busta, real name Trevor Smith, subjected him to “assault, battery, and intentional infliction of emotional distress,” along with “wage and hour violations,” according to the complaint.
“I completely and categorically deny these allegations,” Busta said in a statement, adding that Gables worked for him for a “very brief period” and “it did not work out.”
“Apparently, Dashiel has decided to respond to being let go by manufacturing claims against me in an attempt to attack and damage my reputation,” he continued. “I look forward to proving these allegations false,” he said, calling it “an attempted shake-down by a disgruntled former assistant.” Busta added, “Ultimately, I am certain the truth will prevail.”
Gables alleges the incident began during a January 2025 argument when he tried to contact his daughter. He claims Busta yelled, “Stay the f–k off your phone,” and punched him twice, leaving him with a swollen eye. Gables says he sought medical attention and filed a police report. Smith later turned himself in and faced three assault charges.
Gables also alleges verbal abuse, saying Smith “routinely degrad[ed]” him and made “demeaning demands.” He claims the rapper threatened “street justice,” used a homophobic slur, and mocked his hearing loss.
The complaint also accuses Busta of spitting on staff, hitting them on the head, and grabbing their clothing. Gables alleges unpaid wages, lack of wage statements, and violations under federal and New York labor laws.
He is seeking damages for lost wages, blacklisting in the music industry, and other compensation.