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Lady Gaga sued over fundraising for Japan

Lady Gaga's spokeswoman says a lawsuit accusing the music star of misleading fans with an online pitch for donations to victims of the Japan earthquake is meritless.
Lady Gaga
A spokesman for Lady Gaga says says no profit is being made on shipping costs of teh $5 wristbands.AP
/ Source: The Associated Press

Lady Gaga's spokeswoman says a lawsuit accusing the music star of misleading fans with an online pitch for donations to victims of the Japan earthquake is meritless.

Lady Gaga's website is selling $5 wristbands that say, "We Pray For Japan." The website also allows people to make additional donations and says "all proceeds go directly to Japan relief efforts."

A lawsuit filed in Detroit notes that sales tax and a $3.99 shipping charge are added. Detroit-area attorney Alyson Oliver believes not all money is going to help the Japanese and she wants an accounting.

Lady Gaga's spokeswoman, Holly Shakoor, said Tuesday that no profit is being made on shipping costs.

"This misguided lawsuit is without merit and unfortunately takes attention away from the kind deeds of the fans around the world who are supporting the people of Japan," said Shakoor. "The entire $5 donation made with the purchase of each bracelet is going to support the disaster relief.  No profit is being made on shipping costs. Sales tax charges were made in accordance with local legal requirements. Lady Gaga has personally pledged  her own funds to this cause and continues to support the victims of the disaster."

The lawsuit seeks refunds for people who bought wristbands.