Tony Saxon, who served as a project manager, security guard, and live-in caretaker during the ill-fated 2021 renovation, initially sought more than $1.7 million in damages. The jury awarded a fraction of that amount, $140,000 for lost wages and medical expenses, but Saxon’s legal team declared victory. As West was ordered to pay attorney fees under California labor code provisions, the total judgment is expected to exceed $1 million.
The saga began when West purchased the Tadao Ando-designed concrete mansion in 2021 for $57.3 million. The rapper, now legally known as Ye, immediately began gutting the architectural gem, removing windows, doors, plumbing, and electrical systems. According to trial testimony, West envisioned transforming the property into a “1910s-style bunker” where he could live completely off-grid.
Saxon was hired in September 2021 with a promised weekly salary of $20,000. He alleged he received only one payment before being terminated seven weeks later. During his tenure, Saxon claimed he was forced to sleep on the floor in a sleeping bag while providing 24-hour security for the vacant property.
The termination came after a pivotal moment that defined the trial. Saxon testified that West demanded he bring heavy power generators inside the house. Recognizing the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning, Saxon refused. His resistance cost him the job.
“He told me, ‘If you don’t do what I say, you’re not going to work for me. I’m not gonna be your friend anymore and you’ll just see me on TV,'” Saxon’s lawsuit stated. When Saxon replied he didn’t watch television, West simply said, “Leave.”
The trial featured several surreal moments. West took the stand but offered little substantive testimony, frequently responding with “I’m not sure” when questioned about his role as CEO of Yeezy Construction. Observers noted he appeared drowsy throughout his appearance, at times closing his eyes for extended periods.
West’s legal team mounted an aggressive defense, arguing Saxon was an unlicensed contractor who “destroyed” the property. They presented bank records showing Saxon had received $240,000 during his six weeks of work, a figure Saxon’s team disputed as including construction costs rather than personal compensation. The defense also shared video of Saxon moving without apparent limitation, challenging his injury claims.
“The lies are so deep and so wicked that not a thing can be believed that came out of his mouth,” West’s attorney told the jury, calling Saxon “a professional victim.”
Outside the courthouse, Saxon’s attorneys framed the verdict as a moral triumph. “In true David-vs.-Goliath fashion, Mr. Saxon stood firm against one of the biggest celebrities in the world, with the truth on his side,” said Ronald Zambrano.
West’s spokesperson countered that the award was legally barred under California law, which prevents unlicensed contractors from recovering compensation for work requiring a license. “Based on those findings, we believe the damages award is legally barred and will be seeking post-trial relief from the court,” the statement read.
The legal battle is far from over. In January, West filed a separate lawsuit against Saxon and his legal team over a $1.8 million mechanic’s lien placed on the Malibu property, alleging they “wrongfully” placed an “invalid” lien while launching an aggressive publicity campaign. That case remains pending.
Meanwhile, the Malibu mansion itself has become a cautionary tale in real estate circles. West sold the stripped, unfinished property in 2023 for just $21 million, a staggering $36 million loss. The new owner promptly faced foreclosure after missing loan payments, leaving the architectural carcass to gather dust and legal filings.
For Saxon, the verdict represents validation after years of litigation. For West, it’s the latest in a growing stack of legal judgments as former employees continue to come forward with claims ranging from unpaid wages to harassment. This trial marked the first of more than a dozen lawsuits from ex-employees to reach a jury.
