“You Can’t Leave”: Ye Reportedly Required Project Manager to Reside at Malibu Mansion Demolition Site

This week’s court testimony focused on a significant allegation: Ye, previously known as Kanye West, reportedly instructed an employee to reside in his Malibu beach house during its demolition, asserting that the individual was not permitted to leave.

Tony Saxon was brought on board by Ye in 2021 to take on the role of project manager for the oceanfront property. Saxon provided testimony regarding his responsibilities, which encompassed supervising demolition teams, organizing construction activities, delivering regular photo updates, and handling daily operations as the house underwent its deconstruction. Ye’s legal team contends that Saxon served as an independent contractor rather than as an employee.

On February 25, Saxon testified and outlined what he claimed were stringent directives from Ye. Following the dismissal of a night watchman, Saxon stated that the rap mogul transferred security responsibilities to him and made the expectations evident.

“Remain here at this moment.” “You can’t leave,” Saxon informed the jurors, Ye stated.

Saxon indicated that the order necessitated his continuous presence on site. He mentioned that he rested on a small mattress positioned directly on the concrete floor within the partially demolished house.

He recounted an unexpected moment that took him by surprise.

“He loomed above me and inquired, ‘Why aren’t you working?’” Saxon provided testimony. “It was around three or four in the morning.” I remarked, “I need to get some sleep eventually.” Saxon remarked that his previous boss laughed in reply.

Saxon informed the jurors that the renovation was comprehensive. He stated that Ye requested the removal of all plumbing, electrical wiring, windows, a jacuzzi, chimney stacks, fire pits, and a black marble bathroom. Saxon aimed to convert the residence into an open-concept, off-the-grid bunker, utilizing generators and independent systems for power.

“He preferred not to be linked to the city’s power grid or water grid,” Saxon testified.

Text messages presented in court indicated regular updates regarding debris removal and equipment deliveries. Saxon is pursuing legal action regarding injuries he alleges he sustained during the demolition process and asserts that he was terminated after voicing safety concerns. Ye’s attorney has challenged those claims in court.

The trial is currently in progress.