Note: This article discusses sensitive topics related to sexual assault and harassment.
Diplo has reportedly reached a significant “resolution in principle” to conclude a prolonged legal battle with Shelly Auguste, a California resident who accused the DJ of sexual assault, among other allegations. This development is expected to prevent a civil trial that was set to commence on January 13. Legal representatives for both parties have been contacted for further comment and details.
Auguste claims that she first connected with Diplo online in 2014, when she was 17 years old, and he was in his mid-30s. She initiated legal proceedings against the producer in 2020, successfully obtaining a temporary restraining order. In a counteraction, Diplo secured a restraining order against Auguste, asserting that she had “been harassing him and his family for over a year” and had not ceased her actions.
By early 2021, both parties had agreed to a dual restraining order arrangement, committing not to disparage one another. However, in 2022, an arbitrator determined that Auguste had violated this agreement, resulting in a significant monetary award to Diplo. The exact status of this award at the time negotiations for the global resolution began remains unclear.
The competing lawsuits being settled were filed during the timeframe between the dual restraining order and the arbitration outcome. In April 2021, Diplo filed a lawsuit against Auguste for stalking, trespassing, and the unauthorized distribution of private materials. In June of the same year, Auguste responded with her own lawsuit, alleging sexual assault by Diplo in July 2019, during an occasion when she asserts she was “highly intoxicated.” Diplo publicly refuted Auguste’s claims shortly after the lawsuit was filed.
In addition to civil litigation, Auguste has also submitted multiple police reports against Diplo for alleged revenge porn distribution, with her first report filed in July 2021 and a subsequent report in August 2023. The Los Angeles city attorney’s office opted not to pursue charges in both cases.
If you or someone you know has been affected by sexual assault, we encourage you to seek support:
RAINN National Sexual Assault Hotline
1-800-656-HOPE (4673)
Crisis Text Line
Text “HELLO” or “HOLA” to 741-741
If you are experiencing sexual harassment, you can report it to the relevant authorities at your workplace, educational institution, or local law enforcement.
