CNBC
“Shark Tank” star panelist Daymond John was issued a permanent restraining order against three former candidates on Friday. They posted on social media about their alleged “nightmare” experience with him, court documents say.
Former NFL defenseman Al “Bubba” Baker, his wife Sabrina and daughter Brittani have been ordered by a New Jersey federal court to stop speaking publicly about their experience with John. They appeared on the show in 2014.
The Bakers were also ordered to delete “derogatory” social media posts about John and their business relationship.
Court documents say that the Bakers’ business, Bubba’s Q Boneless Baby Back Ribs, has accused John of attempting to take control of their business.
“All of the Bakers’ contributions are negative, derogatory, or both, and certainly could affect the reputation, goodwill and credibility of DFV and John,” U.S. District Judge Robert Kugler wrote in his ruling, citing the DF Ventures corporation that John formed to do business with the family.
“These posts have clearly caused reputational damage that John must now address and address.”
The Bakers previously complained to the LA Times that John and his associates misled them, tried to take over their business and deprived them of profits in the aftermath of the show.
The Bakers accepted an on-air offer from John for a $300,000 investment for 30% of their boneless ribs company.
They claimed the offer was later adjusted off-air to $100,000 for a larger 35% stake.
John issued a statement following the TRO ruling.
“Today’s decision against the Bakers, their company and their false statements is a moment of vindication,” John said in a statement.
“The actual facts, the record, and the opinion of the federal judge have confirmed that I did not, and could not have, committed any wrongdoing.” I have maintained transparency and honesty throughout my entrepreneurial career.
“I’m grateful for the support I’ve received during this time and will continue to defend my reputation with the same passion I bring to empowering my fellow entrepreneurs.”