Post by : Rameen Ariff

Michelle Ritter, who previously dated ex-Google CEO Eric Schmidt, has initiated legal action claiming that Schmidt stalked her, abused her, and maintained excessive control over her affairs. Court documents acquired by the New York Post reveal that Ritter asserts she was subjected to rigorous digital monitoring amid conflicts surrounding finances, a failed AI venture, and access to his Bel Air estate.

With a notable age gap of 39 years, Ritter contends that Schmidt leveraged his influence to hinder her access to important information, financial resources, and business dealings. She has sought a temporary restraining order against Schmidt, aged 70, who has been in an open marriage with Wendy Schmidt for 45 years. Allegations include Schmidt compelling her to enter a gag order related to accusations of sexual misconduct, though details remain sparse in the unredacted court filings.

The lawsuit is rooted in disagreements over finances and disputes related to her AI startup, Steel Perlot, which allegedly received $100 million in investments from Schmidt. Ritter claims that Schmidt effectively sidelined her from the company and sought to dominate her personal and professional life. She also alleges that private investigators followed her family, showcasing the extent of Schmidt’s alleged influence.

Schmidt’s legal representatives have categorically rejected these allegations. In an 82-page document filed on October 8, Schmidt’s lawyers branded Ritter’s assertions as “evidently false” and a misuse of the legal system. Much of this response remains concealed as a court hearing approaches on December 4, 2025, in Los Angeles. The legal team, led by Patricia Glaser, is advocating to seal certain court documents, pending a decision.

Ritter’s lawsuit emphasizes her situation in Schmidt’s opulent $61 million Bel Air residence, where she has sought exclusive rights and protection for her dog, Henry, a German Shepherd. She claims that Schmidt has not honored prior settlement agreements, compelling her to pay a $75,000 arbitration fee while Schmidt allegedly engages in economic tactics to undermine her.

This case has captured significant media attention due to Schmidt's prominence as a former tech leader and his patterns of relations with younger women in Silicon Valley. Schmidt led Google from 2001 to 2017, transforming it into a technological powerhouse alongside founders Sergey Brin and Larry Page. Ritter’s allegations add to the evolving narrative surrounding scrutiny of Schmidt’s personal affairs.

The upcoming court date on December 4 will attract considerable interest as it will explore Ritter’s allegations of stalking, abuse, and monetary manipulation in this notable legal conflict featuring one of Silicon Valley's central figures. The case raises critical issues regarding power dynamics, digital surveillance, and accountability within the elite tech sector.

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