Allison Zappone has taken legal action against her neighbors, alleging a series of harassing behaviors that have escalated into a serious invasion of privacy. On May 23, 2024, Allison Zappone filed a complaint in the Court of Common Pleas of Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, against John Gabriel and his wife Paula Gabriel. The complaint outlines a disturbing pattern of conduct by the Gabriels that Zappone claims has made her feel like a prisoner in her own home.
According to the complaint filed by Allison Zappone through her attorney Christopher P. Skatell, the dispute between the parties began over a retaining wall dividing their properties. An arbitration ruling had previously been entered against the Gabriels regarding this wall, but since then, Zappone alleges that the couple has engaged in continuous harassment and surveillance. The complaint details several incidents where John Gabriel allegedly attempted to intimidate Zappone by staring at her menacingly and even urinating on her property. Furthermore, Paula Gabriel is accused of moving objects onto Zappone's property and making obscene gestures towards security cameras.
Zappone's complaint includes allegations of "intentional hounding" and "unreasonable surveillance," citing an incident on August 18, 2023, when the Gabriels installed a camera aimed directly at her patio and bedroom windows. This act forms part of Count I - Invasion of Privacy (Intrusion Upon Seclusion), where Zappone argues that she had a reasonable expectation of privacy in her home which was violated by this surveillance. The filing states that such actions have caused "shame, humiliation, and mental suffering" to Zappone.
In addition to seeking $40,000 in damages for each count of invasion of privacy, Zappone is also requesting an order from the court directing the Gabriels to remove or redirect their camera away from her home. The legal filing paints a picture of escalating tensions between neighbors with accusations ranging from verbal abuse to threats involving pets.
The case highlights not only personal grievances but also broader issues concerning privacy rights and neighborly conduct. As it proceeds through the court system under Case ID: No CVPDD008S248F685., it will be presided over by judges within the Allegheny County jurisdiction. Representing Allison Zappone is attorney Christopher P. Skatell from Greensburg, PA.