West Face accuses Israeli intelligence firm of covertly targeting employees

West Face alleged the Black Cube’s activities were undertaken “on false pretences, using lies, deception, false identities, and false offers of employment or investment.”

“The purpose of these investigations was to manufacture evidence that could be used by Catalyst during the course of this appeal,” said the lengthy court filing.

It claims Black Cube operators used lies and deception to entrap employees and Newbould to get damaging statements and information to discredit Newbould’s ruling.

One “sting” against the retired judge was intended to bait Newbould into making anti-Semitic comments. Another was allegedly targeted at former West Face general counsel Alexander Singh.

West Face said the behaviour “mirrors” Black Cube’s actions on behalf of Weinstein, who has been accused of sexual harassment.

Weinstein hired Black Cube to get information on those working to expose allegations against him.

The firm subsequently apologized for its work and pledged to donate proceeds to women’s groups.

West Face said it has been unable to verify the accuracy and completeness of transcripts and recordings of Black Cube’s activities, including the surreptitious recordings with employees.

“We are saddened that innocent people have been misled, intimidated, and emotionally impacted by this disreputable and unseemly conduct,” it stated in a news release.

Neither Catalyst nor Black Cube could be reached for comment. The allegations haven’t been proven in court.

The two private equity firms have been in a legal war for years.

Earlier this month, Catalyst Capital sued West Face Capital and Anson Group Canada for $450 million after accusing the hedge fund and asset manager of allegedly spreading misinformation and launching a short-selling campaign against its publicly-traded subsidiary.

Ross Marowits, The Canadian Press

by Canadian Press

West Face accuses Israeli intelligence firm of covertly targeting employees

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