Pop superstar Katy Perry is pursuing a substantial financial claim of almost $5 million against a disabled veteran, stemming from a protracted legal conflict over a multi-million pound property in California.
The Core of the Legal Dispute
According to legal documents filed on November 21 and reviewed by Daily Mail, the 41-year-old singer is seeking $4,718,698.95 from businessman Carl Westcott. Westcott, the founder of the floral enterprise 1-800-Flowers, is a disabled veteran who previously owned the $15 million Montecito home that Perry purchased over five years ago.
The legal battle originated when Westcott contested the sale of the eight-bedroom, eleven-bathroom mansion. He claimed he was under the influence of medication and lacked the mental capacity to approve the transaction, having bought the property just two months prior. However, in a significant ruling in May 2024, a judge found in Perry's favour, stating Westcott was of sound mind and presented 'no persuasive evidence that he lacked capacity to enter into a real estate contract.'
Breaking Down the Financial Claims
Attorneys for the 'Roar' songstress, who acquired the 2.5-acre estate with her former boyfriend, actor Orlando Bloom, 48, have detailed their client's demands. They assert that Perry is entitled to $3,525,000 for lost rental income caused by the extended litigation.
Additionally, they are claiming a further $1,343,401.95 for necessary repairs carried out on the property, bringing the total to $4,868,401.95. After deducting $149,703 for losses acknowledged by Westcott, the final sum demanded is $4,718,698.95.
A Counter-Narrative from Westcott's Camp
In a dramatic counter-claim, legal representatives for Carl Westcott argue that it is, in fact, Katy Perry who owes money. They contend that Perry has only paid $9 million of the agreed $15 million purchase price. Westcott's team stated they would be willing to deduct repair costs, but maintain that Perry still owes a revised amount of $5,740,418.18.
The case saw Perry give testimony via a Zoom stream to a Los Angeles court in August. When questioned by Westcott's lawyer, Andrew J. Thomas, about what she stood to gain, the 'California Gurls' vocalist replied, 'Yes … justice; I stand to lose money if it does not work in my favour.' The property has remained at the centre of this complex litigation for the past five years.
