After testifying in criminal court that Shaquille O'Neal hired gang members to kidnap him in order to find a sex tape, Robert Ross, a felon and former record producer, filed a civil suit against the retired NBA legend.

While O'Neal has not been charged in the criminal trial against the seven gang members alleged to have participated in the abduction, the civil suit seeks unspecified monetary damages.

In a statement released after the civil suit was filed, O'Neal's attorney, Michael J. Kump, said: "Shaquille O'Neal befriended Mr. Ross in an attempt to help turn his life around. Sadly, Mr. Ross abused that friendship again and again. Shaquille's commitment to law enforcement is well-known and documented. He will not dignify these defamatory allegations with a response."