Aminah Perez has filed a defamation complaint against Paula Richardson, alleging that Richardson's actions have caused significant harm to her reputation and business. The complaint was filed on May 21, 2024, in the Court of Common Pleas of Delaware County.
According to the complaint, Aminah Perez is the principal of Quatre Management, LLC, a real estate development company focused on revitalizing vacant or abandoned properties. On August 7, 2023, Quatre Management purchased a lot at 934 Main Street in Darby, Pennsylvania, with plans to develop it into a "next-concept" convenience store featuring local produce, a gas station, and electric vehicle charging stations. Perez aimed to employ local residents and spur economic growth in Darby Borough.
However, Paula Richardson opposed the project from the outset. She claimed that construction would disturb a sensitive floodplain and filed multiple complaints with the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) to halt development. These complaints led to an order from the DEP on May 18, 2023, to cease earth-moving activities due to minor violations. Perez argued that no permit was needed as her project disturbed less than an acre and suggested that Richardson's opposition was racially motivated.
The complaint further alleges that Richardson trespassed onto the worksite under false pretenses as a Delaware County Emergency Management employee and used racial slurs while harassing employees. Additionally, Richardson posted defamatory statements on social media accusing Perez's redevelopment project of being a fraudulent money-laundering scheme. Following these incidents and subsequent complaints by Perez, Richardson was reportedly terminated from her public employment.
Despite receiving a formal letter from Perez's attorney on April 25, 2024, demanding the removal of defamatory posts within five days, Richardson continued her harassment campaign. She made numerous public social media posts disparaging Perez and distributed pamphlets containing false statements about her business practices. Furthermore, she contacted individuals associated with Perez to spread derogatory comments about her character.
Perez claims that these actions have caused significant reputational harm and mental anguish. She seeks compensatory and punitive damages exceeding $50,000 for defamation.
The case is represented by Kaitlin C. McCaffrey of Van Der Veen Hartshorn & Levin law firm.