"Cheri Pierson v. Leon Black, et al." - Reflections on the Tragedy of King Lear

In a 30-page lawsuit filed in New York state court, Cheri Pierson contends rape and more by co-founder of financial firm Apollo Leon Black. Here is a copy of that complaint - "Cheri Pierson v Leon Black, et al." Another defendant in the litigation is the estate of Jeffrey Epstein. 

Although the alleged misdeeds occurred a long time ago – two decades - the lawsuit is allowed under the Adult Survivors Act. There is a one-year window for doing that. Pierson is represented by Wigdor law firm.

As Reuters Legal and the New York Post report, the details of the alleged sexual misconduct happening at Epstein's mansion on Manhattan’s UES are shocking. 

One aspect of the claim is the infliction of brutal oral sex on the plaintiff when she was turned upside down. That left her in pain for weeks. The encounters with Black also allegedly included her administrating paid massages ($300 a pop) while he masturbated. The association went on over time.

Obviously, Black’s legal representation – overseen by Susan Estrich – will review the terms and conditions of that contract employment. What did Pierson know and when did she know it about Black’s alleged predisposal to sexual misconduct? An issue is: Why did she continue “doing business” with Black over an extended timeframe? Some speculate it was a desperate need for money. There could be that same motivation – money – in filing this lawsuit. She is requesting payment of damagaes.  

This is the second lawsuit filed against Black related to contentions of sexual misconduct. Earlier his former mistress Guzel Ganieva filed a complaint alleging rape. Later she added an amendment claiming Black tried to involve her in being sex trafficked. She has also sued Black for defamation. Ganieva is also represented by Wigdor.

In response Black filed a countersuit accusing her and others of defamation and more. That was dismissed. Black is attempting to file another similar complaint. Now Black may sue Pierson for defamation. Through his lawyer Estrich, he denies all the plaintiff’s contentions.

For students of William Shakespeare (there were once many of us English majors) Black seems to be playing out the dynamics of the tragedy of King Lear. That fallen hero perceived himself as more sinned against than sinning.

With these ongoing high-profile legal battles it becomes increasingly impossible for Black to put together a reputational comeback. He has lost so much. That includes:

Stepping down from CEO position at Apollo

Stepping down from Chairman of the Board role at Apollo

Stepping down from Chairman of the Board position at the Museum of Modern Art. He is an art enthusiast and owns the famed “The Scream.”

He could lose more. The New York Post provides this detail:

“Ganieva – and a Jane Doe mentioned in her suit – have also brought their allegations to the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office, which has opened up an investigation into Black, according to court papers filed in Ganieva’s case in October.”

If criminal activity is proved Black could lose his freedom.

For those who admre genius this is all very sad. Black's financial brilliance made not only him very wealthy. He also achieved that for his investors. Currently he operates his family office.

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