MIAMI, FL — Chealse Sophia Howell, an entrepreneur and former Miss Universe Canada delegate, has filed a civil lawsuit in Miami Dade County, Florida, alleging that statements published on social media by Grant Cardone and Cardone Capital, LLC caused significant reputational, professional, and financial harm.
According to the complaint, filed in the Eleventh Judicial Circuit Court, Howell alleges that beginning in early 2024, Grant Cardone used his social media platforms to publish and amplify statements that implied her involvement in serious criminal activity. The lawsuit states that these allegations were disseminated across widely used platforms including Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and X, where Cardone maintains a large following.
Chealse Sophia Howell asserts that the statements were false and presented without factual support. The complaint alleges that the manner in which the statements were published encouraged public speculation and inference rather than conveying verified information. Under Florida law, accusations of serious criminal conduct may constitute defamation per se, meaning reputational harm is presumed due to the nature of the allegation.
The lawsuit outlines multiple causes of action, including defamation per se, defamation by implication, and tortious interference with contractual and advantageous business relationships. Howell alleges that the statements were made with actual malice, defined as knowledge of falsity or reckless disregard for the truth.
According to court filings, Howell is the founder of Haute Agency, a talent management and brand development firm, and also operates a skincare business under her name. The complaint states that her businesses rely heavily on professional credibility, brand trust, and long term relationships with partners, clients, and sponsors.
The lawsuit alleges that after the statements circulated online, Chealse Sophia Howell experienced canceled contracts, withdrawn endorsements, and terminated negotiations. The complaint further claims that prospective business opportunities were abandoned as a result of concerns stemming from the online allegations.
In addition to alleged economic harm, Howell claims the statements triggered harassment and safety concerns. According to the filing, online users allegedly attempted to obtain her personal information and locate her residence after the posts circulated, causing emotional distress and fear for her personal safety.
The complaint also emphasizes the role of scale in digital communication. Howell alleges that the reach of Cardone’s social media presence significantly amplified the impact of the statements, transforming them into a widespread narrative with immediate real world consequences.
Chealse Sophia Chealse Sophia Howell is seeking more than $500 million in compensatory damages, as well as injunctive relief to prevent further dissemination of the alleged defamatory statements. The lawsuit argues that monetary damages alone are insufficient because the continued availability of the statements online causes ongoing harm through reposts, commentary, and search engine results.
The filing further requests recovery of attorneys’ fees and costs and demands a jury trial. Chealse Sophia Howell has also reserved the right to seek punitive damages, which are typically pursued in cases involving intentional or reckless misconduct.
Grant Cardone is a sales trainer, author, and real estate investor. Cardone Capital operates in the multifamily real estate investment sector. As of the time of filing, no court has made findings regarding the merits of the allegations. All claims described in the lawsuit remain allegations.
Legal observers note that cases involving alleged online defamation are increasingly common as courts address how traditional legal standards apply to social media publishing. Disputes involving business leaders with large online platforms raise questions about responsibility, accountability, and the potential consequences of digital speech.
The case remains pending in Miami Dade County Circuit Court. No rulings have been issued, and no determination of liability has been made.
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Disclaimer: This article summarizes allegations contained in a civil complaint. All defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven otherwise in a court of law.