RHOC star Katie Ginella sued by man in $5 million lawsuit over alleged stolen ‘Golf Shot’ idea as she’s accused of committing ‘fraud’

RHOC star Katie Ginella sued by man in $5 million lawsuit over alleged stolen 'Golf Shot' idea as she's accused of committing 'fraud'

As an ardent fan with a keen eye for intrigue and a hearty appreciation for the drama that unfolds within the realm of reality television, I find myself utterly captivated by the latest developments surrounding Katie Ginella, the newest addition to The Real Housewives of Orange County. This whirlwind of legal entanglements and allegations of partnership breaches, fraud, and stolen ideas has me on the edge of my seat!


Katie Ginella, the latest addition to The Real Housewives of Orange County, is facing legal action from a man who alleges violations of a business partnership, an unspoken contract, and fraud, among other claims.

As reported by DailyMail.com based on court records, Katie (aged 40) was named among the defendants alongside Dolores Salman, George Salman, and Tee Shots, LLC in a lawsuit that was initiated in California on July 31.

Chad Ruskey, the claimant, asserts that he came up with the idea for an innovative golf-themed item known as the ‘Golf Shot’, which is essentially a golf ball-shaped drinking glass designed specifically for golf enthusiasts.

In February 2023, a new concept called ‘The Golf Shot’ was developed. This innovative drink container is designed to hold around 50 ml of alcohol like tequila or other spirits, offering a fresh, upscale drinking experience. Aside from the regular size, the product line also includes a magnum gift edition that can contain 1.75 liters. This makes it an exceptional and distinctive gift idea for golf enthusiasts and special events.

After Ruskey discussed his idea with the other parties, they had all agreed to form a partnership. 

RHOC star Katie Ginella sued by man in $5 million lawsuit over alleged stolen 'Golf Shot' idea as she's accused of committing 'fraud'

RHOC star Katie Ginella sued by man in $5 million lawsuit over alleged stolen 'Golf Shot' idea as she's accused of committing 'fraud'

In March 2023, Ruskey shared an update about his project advancements in a group text, as stated in the documents. This update was primarily focused on his efforts related to acquiring a domain, managing a social media account, and continuing to engage his designer for creating our brand identity within the Partnership context.

Although it’s not certain what Ginella’s connection was with George and Dolores Salman, it seems that she aimed to leverage her position on Real Housewives of Orange County to publicize ‘The Golf Shot.’

According to Ruskey’s understanding and assumption, defendants George, Dolores, and Ginella planned to capitalize significantly on Ginella’s potential fame from her upcoming appearance on the reality TV show “Real Housewives of Orange County,” given its popularity.

They thought that featuring Ginella on the show would offer a strong marketing opportunity for their stolen product, thereby speeding up their process of acquiring wealth.

Approximately three months down the line, in June 2023, a local Orange County resident named Ruskey claims that the defendants started plotting together to establish a rival business, with the intention of capitalizing on his concept.

According to him, George, along with defendants Dolores and Ginella, were eager for a business concept that others would find thrilling because they lacked the capability to establish successful businesses independently.

The company Tee Shots, LLC, was subsequently established by the Salmans and a previous golf journalist, according to Ruskey’s claims. This strategic step, he alleges, was taken with the intention of advancing their fraudulent plan while concealing the real identities of those involved in the alleged embezzlement.

In a claim made by Ruskey, it’s suggested that the Limited Liability Company (LLC) initially registered in Wyoming was actually established in another state. The alleged reason behind this move, according to him, is to keep the ownership information hidden from public view, thereby shielding the Defendants from potential examination.

RHOC star Katie Ginella sued by man in $5 million lawsuit over alleged stolen 'Golf Shot' idea as she's accused of committing 'fraud'
RHOC star Katie Ginella sued by man in $5 million lawsuit over alleged stolen 'Golf Shot' idea as she's accused of committing 'fraud'

As a long-time fan of graphic t-shirts, I can’t help but feel a sense of betrayal upon discovering that TEESHOTS, a brand that was once my go-to for unique and creative designs, has blatantly stolen someone else’s idea. Having followed their journey from the early days, I remember the passion and dedication they put into every design, always pushing the boundaries of creativity and originality.

Ruskey is filing a lawsuit for:

In summary, Ruskey claims that he sustained severe and substantial losses and monetary harm totaling at least 5 million dollars. The exact figure will be determined during the trial.

According to DailyMail.com, Ginella and the Salmans stated that no legal papers concerning a lawsuit filed by Ruskey have been received by them as of now.

At present, neither Katie Ginella nor the Salman duo – Dolores and George – have received a lawsuit from Chad Ruskey concerning any alleged disputes. Previously, we’ve been contacted by Mr. Ruskey’s legal representative over accusations of breaching a partnership for our golf-ball shot glass business. However, we’ve both made it clear that we have no business relationships or arrangements with Mr. Ruskey.

It seems that Mr. Ruskey’s assertion about inventing a distinctive golf ball shot glass is not backed up by facts. Notably, Ms. Ginella has never interacted or communicated with Mr. Ruskey in any way, and she will strongly contest being included baselessly in the lawsuit.

In case you might remember, on the August 1st episode of RHOC, Katie hosted a golf event. With assistance from her husband Matt Ginella and another golfer, they engaged in a friendly match where the ladies took turns playing against each other. Emily Simpson emerged victorious, winning a pair of Prada sunglasses. However, this triumph led to some drama unfolding.

It came to light for Heather Dubrow that there was evidence, specifically a text message, suggesting Ginella had employed paparazzi to capture photographs of her and her husband Terry Dubrow at Disneyland in 2022 – an allegation Ginella has persistently denied.

New episodes of Real Housewives of Orange County air every Thursday at 9/8c on Bravo.

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2024-08-14 01:49

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