Eric Schmidt Faces Legal Battle Over Alleged Stalking and Failed AI Startup
Michelle Ritter, former girlfriend of ex-Google CEO Eric Schmidt, has accused the billionaire of stalking, abuse, and “toxic masculinity” in ongoing legal proceedings. The dispute involves a failed AI startup, access to a $61 million Bel Air mansion, and allegations of extensive digital surveillance.
Key Developments
- Ritter alleges Schmidt subjected her to “absolute digital surveillance system”
- Legal fight centers on money, AI startup Steel Perlot, and luxury property access
- Restraining order filed and withdrawn after parties reached new agreement
- Schmidt’s legal team calls allegations “blatant abuse of judicial system”
Background: Who is Michelle Ritter?
Michelle Ritter is a 2021 Columbia Law School graduate and tech entrepreneur who founded AI startup Steel Perlot. Schmidt reportedly invested $100 million in her venture. The 31-year-old has represented herself in court proceedings against her former partner.
Legal Allegations and Claims
Ritter’s court filings describe a pattern of alleged misconduct spanning multiple states. She claims Schmidt locked her out of properties in New York, Miami, and Aspen, along with personal and business belongings. The restraining order application also alleged he attempted to force her to sign a “gag order on any sexual assault or harassment allegations.”
The dispute involves the Bel Air mansion at 1060 Brooklawn Drive, a 15,000-square-foot property Schmidt purchased for $61 million. Ritter sought exclusive access to the residence and protection for her German Shepherd, Henry, but has since moved to a Beverly Hills apartment.
Startup Access Blocked
In temporary restraining order documents, Ritter claimed Schmidt recently locked her out of her own startup’s website. “Please note Eric’s technical background,” she wrote. “I literally cannot have a private phone call or send a private email without surveillance.”
She further alleged being pressured to “sign a knowingly false declaration that any such allegations never happened” regarding sexual misconduct claims.
Schmidt’s Legal Response
Schmidt’s legal team, led by prominent LA litigator Patricia Glaser, filed an 82-page response calling Ritter’s complaint “demonstrably false” and “a blatant abuse of the judicial system.” They filed a motion to seal court documents on October 8.
Most portions of Schmidt’s legal response were redacted before the scheduled December 4 hearing in downtown Los Angeles. The parties had previously reached a settlement agreement in September requiring “substantial payments” to Ritter, though details remain confidential.
