Renowned magician David Copperfield is facing a lawsuit from the condo board of The Galleria on East 57th Street, alleging that he trashed and neglected his Manhattan penthouse. The board claims Copperfield’s actions, or lack thereof, have resulted in $2.5 million worth of damage to the property.
The lawsuit details several incidents contributing to the extensive damage. Notably, it mentions illegal and ineffective plumbing installations that caused Copperfield’s rooftop pool to burst in 2015, leading to water damage affecting condos 30 floors below. Additionally, a valve failure last year resulted in flooding that damaged apartments, hallways, and elevator shafts.
Copperfield’s $7 million penthouse has reportedly been vacant since he moved out in 2018. The condo board alleges that the property has since fallen into severe disrepair, raising concerns about the building’s structural integrity. The neglect has supposedly left the penthouse in a dilapidated state, further exacerbating the damage to the building.
The board is seeking compensation for the damages and the necessary repairs to restore the building to a safe condition. Representatives for Copperfield have not yet commented on the allegations.
This lawsuit brings attention to the responsibilities of high-profile property owners and the impact of neglect on shared living spaces. As the legal proceedings unfold, both parties are expected to present their evidence regarding the state of the penthouse and the alleged damages.
