Renowned fashion designer Riccardo Tisci, celebrated for his creative direction at Burberry and Givenchy, faces a serious lawsuit in New York. Plaintiff Patrick Cooper accuses Tisci of assault, battery, false imprisonment, and violations of New York’s Gender-Motivated Violence Act. The allegations, which Tisci denies, could impact his storied career in the fashion industry.
On April 29, 2025, Patrick Cooper, 35, filed a lawsuit against Tisci, 50, as reported by PEOPLE. The suit alleges that on June 29, 2024, Tisci drugged Cooper’s drink without consent at a Harlem restaurant. Cooper claims Tisci then took him to his home, where he prevented Cooper from leaving and sexually assaulted him. According to court documents, Cooper awoke naked beside Tisci, unable to consent due to the alleged drug’s effects.
Cooper seeks compensatory and punitive damages for assault, emotional distress, and other charges. Tisci’s spokesperson issued a statement, saying, “These allegations are categorically untrue. Riccardo looks forward to clearing his name through due process.”
Riccardo Tisci Faces Accusations of Sexual Assault https://t.co/pzwpV1WNkS
— WWD (@wwd) May 1, 2025The case remains a civil matter, with no criminal charges filed. The New York Police Department declined to comment directly but emphasised its commitment to investigating sexual assault cases and supporting survivors. Cooper’s allegations describe a loss of consciousness and inability to resist, highlighting the severity of the claims.
Tisci’s career, defined by groundbreaking work at top fashion houses, now faces scrutiny. The lawsuit raises broader questions about accountability in high-profile industries.
Riccardo Tisci Hit With Sexual Assault Lawsuit
Full details here: https://t.co/1zIKtJlee4 pic.twitter.com/UWhTBWEYpp
— Complex (@Complex) May 1, 2025Riccardo Tisci’s lawsuit marks a pivotal moment for the fashion icon, as he navigates serious allegations of assault and misconduct. While Tisci denies the claims, the case could reshape perceptions of his legacy. As the legal process unfolds, the fashion world and public await further developments.
