Chanel Maya Banks, best known for her role in TV's Gossip Girl, has filed restraining orders against her mother and cousin, alleging a campaign of harassment and false accusations.

The 36-year-old actress took legal action after a tumultuous public dispute involving allegations of abuse, a missing persons report, and claims of a conservatorship attempt, as the Daily Mail reports.

Banks filed a temporary restraining order against her cousin, Danielle-Tori Singh, and a civil harassment restraining order against both Singh and her mother, Lutchmin Judy Kumar. The actress accused the pair of working together to harass her and spread misinformation in an attempt to harm her career and credibility.

Missing Persons Report Sparks Controversy

The family drama intensified when Banks’ mother and cousin filed a missing persons report a month earlier, claiming the actress was missing and possibly in danger. Authorities quickly located Banks in Texas, confirming she was safe and unharmed. Banks later dismissed the report as fabricated, alleging it was part of a larger scheme to discredit her and her husband, Carlos.

Banks claimed the report falsely accused Carlos of murdering her. In response, she posted on social media, reassuring her followers that she was alive and not missing. “I just want to be free of a toxic woman and her family,” she wrote. “Interview incoming.”

Allegations of Burglary and Tracking

Banks also accused her mother and cousin of burglarizing her apartment on November 10, stealing her husband’s work badge, and planting an Apple AirTag on her car to track her movements. She reported the alleged incidents to law enforcement and claimed they were further evidence of her family’s harassment.

Adding to her accusations, Banks said her family assaulted her husband, leaving visible injuries. However, some sources suggested the injuries occurred before the alleged altercation. Banks also asserted that her family threatened her via text messages, stating they would “weaponize the police” against her.

Claims of Conservatorship and Cult Allegations

According to Banks, her mother and cousin were plotting to place her under a conservatorship to gain legal control over her life. Meanwhile, the family held a press conference denying her allegations and accusing Banks of being held captive by a Christian cult led by Pastor Robert Clancy. Banks refuted these claims, stating she had willingly distanced herself from her family and found peace through her faith.

“They say, once you're free in Christ Jesus, you're free indeed,” Banks said in a statement. She also warned followers not to donate to any GoFundMe campaigns claiming she was missing.

Holiday Message Marks Turning Point

Amid the controversy, Banks released a video alongside her husband, wishing fans a happy holiday season and emphasizing her well-being.

“As you can see, I am alive,” she declared, smiling alongside Carlos. The couple expressed gratitude for their supporters and emphasized their commitment to moving forward.

Lessons to Learn from This Tragedy

1. Trust but verify concerns: While family members often have the best intentions, false accusations can have far-reaching consequences. Verify claims thoroughly before acting on them.

2. Protect your privacy: The alleged use of tracking devices in this case highlights the importance of regularly checking for breaches of personal security.

3. Seek support if necessary: This case demonstrates the value of professional guidance, such as legal assistance or counseling, to handle complex interpersonal conflicts.

Despite these precautions, it’s important to remember that anyone can become a victim of harassment. Blame should never fall on the person targeted.

Why This Story Matters

This story is a reminder of the complexities of family dynamics and the potential misuse of legal and public systems for personal agendas.

It highlights the importance of safeguarding personal autonomy and privacy in the face of external pressures. Chanel Maya Banks’ case underscores the need for accountability and support in cases of alleged harassment.

The Bottom Line

Chanel Maya Banks’ legal battle with her mother and cousin shines a spotlight on the delicate balance between family loyalty and personal safety.

From a missing persons report to accusations of burglary and false claims, the story serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of unchecked family disputes.

As Banks prepares to share her side in a tell-all interview, her journey underscores the importance of self-advocacy and resilience in the face of adversity.