USD 3 Million Lawsuit: Social Media Row between Melly Mell and TikTok Aunty Ends up in New York’s Eastern District Court

April 18, 2024 | Guyana Uncut News | Georgetown

A lawsuit has been filed by Melissa Holder, known as Melly Mell in the social media sphere, against Rhonda Bobb, also known as TikTok Aunty, and her company Let’s Talk With Rhonda Bobb LLC. The lawsuit, filed through Washington Law Firm P.C., alleges defamation, harassment, and personal injuries caused by the defendants’ actions.

The lawsuit contends that the defendants deliberately engaged in defamatory conduct, harassing behavior, and personal attacks against Melissa Holder. It seeks permanent injunction and damages arising from false remarks made by Rhonda Bobb during live content production for Let’s Talk With Rhonda Bobb LLC.

The court’s jurisdiction is cited under 28 U.S.C 1332 due to complete diversity of citizenship between the parties and the amount in controversy exceeding $75,000. Melissa Holder, a citizen of Guyana residing in New Jersey, brings the case against Rhonda Bobb, a citizen of New York. Venue is deemed proper under 28 U.S.C. 1391(b) as both defendants reside in New York, and the alleged wrong occurred within the state.

Melissa Holder is a resident of Essex County, New Jersey, while Rhonda Bobb resides in Queens, New York. Let’s Talk With Rhonda Bobb LLC is a domestic limited liability company registered in New York.

Melissa Holder and Rhonda Bobb are both considered social media influencers focusing on current affairs, particularly those concerning Guyana. Holder operates under the name “Melly Mel” with a significant following, while Bobb operates Let’s Talk With Rhonda Bobb LLC, boasting a substantial Facebook following.

Melissa Holder alleges that Rhonda Bobb made false claims during live videos, accusing Holder of criminal conduct, including extortion and illegal presence in the United States. These defamatory statements were intended to damage Holder’s reputation and have caused financial and emotional harm.

The lawsuit asserts that Rhonda Bobb repeatedly made false allegations about Holder’s immigration status, aiming to harass, annoy, and intimidate her. These actions resulted in further emotional distress and damages.

Holder claims that as a direct result of Rhonda Bobb’s conduct, she experienced panic attacks, anxiety, and depression, leading to medical treatment. The lawsuit holds Bobb responsible for these injuries and demands compensation.

Melissa Holder seeks damages exceeding US$3,000,000.00, including actual damages for defamation, harassment, and personal injuries, as well as punitive damages, pre and post-judgment costs, interest, attorney’s fees, and a permanent injunction restraining Rhonda Bobb from further publishing false information.

Magistrate Judge Cheryl L. Pollak of the New York’s Eastern District Court will preside over the case which is expected to have its first hearing soon. 

For further updates on this developing story, stay tuned to Guyana Uncut News.