Stalking, control, and power games? What Michelle Ritter’s lawsuit reveals about Eric Schmidt
Former Google CEO Eric Schmidt is facing serious allegations from his ex-girlfriend Michelle Ritter, who has filed a lawsuit claiming that he stalked, abused, and monitored her communications. Ritter alleges that Schmidt used his wealth, influence, and technical skills to control her access to money, property, and her business.
According to the New York Post, Ritter said Schmidt subjected her to constant digital surveillance amid disputes over finances, her artificial intelligence startup Steel Perlot, and her access to his Bel Air mansion. The AI firm had received $100 million in funding from Schmidt.
Allegations of digital surveillance and control
Ritter’s lawsuit claims Schmidt used his immense resources and technical expertise to spy on her private communications and block her access to financial and business assets. She alleged he monitored her phone calls, emails, and devices while withholding funds and access to property.
According to the New York Post, the dispute escalated after disagreements over finances, access to Schmidt’s $61 million Bel Air mansion, and control of Ritter’s AI startup, Steel Perlot — a company he had invested $100 million in.
Legal battle and restraining order
Ritter filed a domestic violence restraining order against Schmidt in December 2024, alleging he had locked her out of Steel Perlot and used surveillance tactics to intimidate her. The order was lifted after a temporary settlement, but Ritter later claimed Schmidt continued to exert economic pressure and violate their agreement.
“I literally cannot have a private phone call or send a private email without surveillance,” Ritter alleged in her filing. “My former partner is extraordinarily powerful and capable and has used every means to block me from living my life in peace.”
Schmidt’s response: ‘False and abusive claims’
Schmidt’s legal team, led by Patricia Glaser, filed an 82-page response on 8 October 2025, calling Ritter’s allegations “demonstrably false” and “a blatant abuse of the judicial system.” They have requested the Los Angeles court to seal the case documents, citing privacy concerns. A hearing is set for 4 December.
Claims of harassment and intimidation
Ritter also alleged that her parents were followed by private investigators in Los Angeles two days before her restraining order filing. When questioned by police, one of the investigators allegedly said he worked for a “billionaire’s private security detail.”
Ritter sought exclusive access to Schmidt’s Bel Air mansion, where she currently lives, and court protection for her German Shepherd, Henry.
A turbulent relationship in Silicon Valley
Ritter, 39 years younger than Schmidt, claimed he pressured her to sign a gag order and deny any allegations of sexual misconduct. Although she did not elaborate on these claims in court filings, her statements have drawn attention to power dynamics in the tech world.
Schmidt, who led Google from 2001 to 2017, has been labelled “Silicon Valley’s Casanova” for his relationships with much younger women. His leadership at Google transformed the company into a global tech giant alongside founders Larry Page and Sergey Brin.
Case highlights concerns over power and privacy
The ongoing case has sparked debate about the intersection of power, privacy, and technology in personal relationships. Ritter’s allegations, though strongly denied by Schmidt, have raised questions about how digital tools can be weaponised for surveillance and control.
The court’s decision in December will determine whether the case proceeds publicly or remains sealed — potentially keeping one of Silicon Valley’s most controversial disputes behind closed doors.