Paolo Zampolli, a prominent figure in the orbit of President Donald Trump and someone who has claimed he introduced Trump to Melania Trump, is facing serious allegations in a newly filed lawsuit. The civil complaint, lodged by tech entrepreneur Victoria Drake, accuses Zampolli of drugging and sexually assaulting her at his Manhattan townhouse.

The lawsuit details an encounter that allegedly took place on October 5, 2023, at Zero Bond, a private members’ club in Manhattan. According to Drake, Zampolli approached her by claiming familiarity, saying he recognized her from Mar-a-Lago, where she had previously attended events with an ex-boyfriend. This initial friendly exchange led to the two exchanging phone numbers.

Drake claims that their meeting escalated to a troubling situation at Zampolli’s Gramercy Park home. She alleges that after consuming a drink, she lost consciousness. Upon awakening, she found herself naked in bed, claiming Zampolli was sexually assaulting her, with his hands around her neck. She asserts that she was incapacitated and unable to give consent.

In her complaint, Drake describes waking with bruises on her limbs and confusion about how her clothes went missing. Following the incident, she reported the alleged assault to the New York Police Department (NYPD) the next day.

Drake was subsequently taken by ambulance to Lenox Health Greenwich Hospital, where she underwent examinations for sexual assault and potential drug-facilitated assault. As of now, there is no record of Zampolli being arrested. He has stated that the case was closed by police, a claim the NYPD has yet to confirm.

In response to the lawsuit, Zampolli, who has reportedly served as Trump’s special envoy for global partnerships since March 2025, has dismissed the allegations as fabrications intended to extort him. “These claims are outlandish and an attempt to defame my character,” he stated. He has even filed a counter-complaint against Drake in Rome, labeling her accusations as false and defamatory, claiming he plans to seek $100 million in damages.

Speaking with media outlets, Zampolli indicated that he has not discussed the lawsuit with the White House, emphasizing that the administration has other priorities. “We are slightly busier than engaging with personal attacks on people who serve the president or are close to the president,” he remarked.

The allegations against Zampolli come amidst a backdrop of controversy. His name has surfaced in connection with the late Jeffrey Epstein, with records showing that Zampolli attempted to buy the Elite Model Management agency along with Epstein. However, the released documents do not substantiate any wrongdoing by Zampolli regarding Epstein.

Notably, Zampolli is also embroiled in a contentious custody battle with his former partner, Brazilian model Amanda Ungaro, who accuses him of leveraging his connections to facilitate her detention by ICE prior to her deportation. Zampolli denies these claims, while the Department of Homeland Security maintains that no political influence was involved.

The White House and the State Department have not responded to inquiries about the lawsuit and its implications for Zampolli’s role within the administration, leaving many questions unanswered about how this situation may affect his current position.

Victoria Drake, 33, a recognized entrepreneur, has taken a bold step in challenging Zampolli through legal means. Her accusations align with a broader conversation about accountability and the importance of believing survivors of sexual assault.

The outcome of this lawsuit could have significant ramifications, not only for Zampolli’s career but also for the individuals involved in Trump’s administration. As the case unfolds, it may evoke memories of previous controversies surrounding Trump and his associates.

While the allegations remain unproven, they cast a shadow over Zampolli’s reputation and raise critical questions regarding conduct and accountability among those in powerful positions.

As the legal process progresses, further developments are anticipated that may include responses from Zampolli and Drake regarding the escalating accusations.

The public and media scrutiny surrounding this case highlights the complexities of navigating personal and professional relationships within elite circles, especially when they intersect with allegations of misconduct.

The implications of this lawsuit could resonate far beyond the individuals involved, confronting larger themes of power dynamics, consent, and the necessity of ensuring safety and respect in all interactions.

As it stands, the legal proceedings will likely unfold against a backdrop of intense public interest, which may further complicate the already intricate relationship dynamics surrounding the Trump administration and its inner circle.