Why was HGTV 'Battle With The Bling' judge Jackie Siegel sued? Sexual abuse lawsuit settled before trial

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What was the sexual assault allegation case against Jackie Siegel?

Flores filed a lawsuit against CFI, the parent company of Westgate Resorts, which was formed by Jackie's timeshare mogul husband, David Siegel, in 2020. Jackie and David rose to prominence for their intentions to create a luxurious palace in Central Florida, which remained incomplete due to protracted building delays and issues. Their narrative was chronicled in the documentary film 'The Queen of Versailles', which was followed this year by a new reality show dubbed 'Queen of Versailles Reigns Again'.

Flores claimed in his complaint that he had been "subjected to severe and pervasive sexual harassment at the hands of his female boss, Jackie Siegel." He stated Jackie told him that because he was a Latin chef, he had to be good in bed. "You’re here to please me," he noted quoting her. According to his complaint, Flores stated that he was threatened by Jackie as she said "There are consequences for you not pleasing me."

When Flores complained about the sexual harassment, Jackie exposed her breasts to him and purposefully strolled about in see-through nightgowns. According to his lawsuit, Flores claimed Jackie grabbed him multiple times and masturbated in front of him more than once. He said that nothing occurred when he protested to the firm. CFI responded strongly in court within weeks following Flores' complaint. In a countersuit, CFI rejected his charges and accused him of being a terrible employee and stealing.

Flores, according to CFI, was unreliable and frequently missed work. "On Monday, April 15, 2019, the first business day after CFI counseled and warned Flores about (his) attendance and work deficiencies, Flores went to Team Member Services located at the Westgate Lakes & Spa and made a sexual harassment complaint against Mrs. Siegel," the countersuit stated.

Flores was frequently discovered in his car with restaurant sandwiches and food supplies. According to the countersuit, he was not permitted to take the things. It also mentioned that Flores was fired on September 10, 2019, for theft and dishonesty due to his "ever-changing excuses." CFI stated that after analyzing his movements, the company discovered the chef had a habit of clocking in but not showing up to work at the Siegel's throughout his tenure. "Flores exploited this to collect more than $30,000 in wages from CFI for work he did not do," the countersuit mentioned.

CFI expected Flores to repay the money. Both parties were preparing for the approaching trial. During jury selection, the following questions were asked to narrow down jurors: Do you think negatively of reality TV stars? According to court documents, Flores and Jackie were both expected to be summoned as witnesses, as was the latter's husband, David. However, the case was resolved before the five-day trial began on November 14. According to a federal court order, the case was dismissed on October 3.

The 'Queen of Versailles' star will soon be featured in the new HGTV show, 'Battle of the Bling'. On their new show, Todrick Hall and designer Kim Myles will highlight the most outlandish residences. The HGTV series, which premieres on Friday, December 9, follows Myles and Hall as they explore 15 maximalist residences submitted by homeowners who believe their home is the 'blingiest' in the country. Each eye-catching home is judged by Jackie, and HGTV design professionals Alison Victoria, and Keith Bynum.