Rapper Azealia Banks has petitioned a California court for a domestic violence restraining order against her former manager, Jeff Evan Kwatinetz, alleging he subjected her to psychological and emotional abuse over more than a decade through coercive control, financial manipulation, and intimidation.
In court filings submitted Monday, Banks alleges the misconduct began in 2014, when Kwatinetz persuaded her to sign a life insurance policy while she was intoxicated. According to her declaration, “He gave me expensive red wine and put the policy in front of me when I was drunk and we were cozied up.”
Banks contends no attorney reviewed the policy before she signed it. She further alleges Kwatinetz has refused to disclose whether the policy remains active or identify its beneficiary.
Seeking relief under California’s Domestic Violence Prevention Act, Banks identified Kwatinetz as someone with whom she “are dating or used to date.” In a supporting declaration, she described their relationship as “an intimate and very close relationship,” alleging he blurred personal boundaries while maintaining control over her professional career.
Rapper Azealia Banks Requests A Domestic Violence Restraining Order (DVRO) Against Former Manager Jeff Evan Kwatinetz
The petition also accuses Kwatinetz of orchestrating an extended surveillance campaign. Banks alleges he hired a private security firm to “locate and profile” her and that investigators were “mapping” her residence from the air. She claims she returned home to find a “wide-open window” and repeatedly observed “random unmarked cars” near residences after relocating between states. She also alleges he falsely accused her of attempting to rob his home.
Banks further claims Kwatinetz engaged in coercive control, financial exploitation, blackmail, and conduct that disturbed her peace. They have not spoken directly for nearly a decade. She alleges he pressured her to extend her recording contract for his financial benefit. Falsely represented in court that she refused to appear for a deposition.
The parties have a lengthy litigation history. Kwatinetz sued Banks in 2020 alleging extortion. After that action was dismissed, he filed a second lawsuit in 2021 asserting stalking, defamation, and civil extortion claims. Banks was ultimately found liable in that case.
Through the current DVRO petition, Banks seeks stay-away and no-contact orders. She requests protection for several family members, disclosure and cancellation of the disputed life insurance policy. A prohibition on further surveillance and permission to appear remotely at future hearings.
The filing does not allege physical violence. Instead, Banks asserts she suffered years of psychological and emotional abuse. The allegations remain unproven, and the court has not ruled on the merits of her claims.
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