A contentious legal dispute between a former television actor and an Ohio contractor has escalated into allegations of workplace harassment and privacy violations, according to court documents filed in December 2025.
Nicholas Brendon, 54, known for his role in the television series Buffy the Vampire Slayer, has filed a lawsuit against contractor Stephen Britton seeking more than $120,000 in damages. Brendon alleges that Britton left renovation work unfinished on his Ohio residence after receiving substantial payment.
However, Britton has presented a starkly different account of events, claiming in court filings that he terminated the contract due to safety concerns. The contractor alleged that he and his employees were subjected to harassment, including verbal abuse and objects being thrown at them during the course of their work.
Tracking Device Allegations
The most serious allegation involves a tracking device. Britton testified that he discovered an AirTag, a location-tracking device, had been placed in his work bag. According to his testimony, his iPhone alerted him to the presence of the tracking device for approximately three days before he located it.
Britton filed for a civil stalking protection order, which was ultimately dismissed by a judge. During the December 2025 hearing, Brendon acknowledged placing the AirTag in the contractor's tool bag but denied any malicious intent. The actor stated he found the device on his garage floor in the construction area and placed it in the bag without understanding its tracking capabilities.
Brendon told the court that his assistant had purchased the tracking devices approximately eight months prior, but he had never used them and did not comprehend their function. He denied any intention to stalk or harass Britton, whom he considered a friend.
Safety Concerns and Working Conditions
Britton maintained that the working environment at the property became increasingly concerning. He testified that weapons and axes were visible on the premises, creating an atmosphere of fear for himself and his employees. The contractor stated he worried about physical assault and questioned whether he might have objects thrown at him while attempting to complete the renovation work.
Additional allegations included claims that Brendon's assistant, Theresa Fortier, was found sleeping in the garage during work hours. Britton characterized this as creating an unsafe working environment. Fortier acknowledged sleeping in the garage but stated no workers were present at the time and that she sought a quiet space away from ongoing activity in the home.
Financial Dispute at Heart of Lawsuit
At the center of the legal action is a financial disagreement over the renovation project. Brendon alleges he paid Britton $79,441 for the work, but only a fence installation valued at $7,622 was completed. The actor claims the contractor was enriched by $67,269 for unfinished work.
Brendon further alleges he loaned Britton $20,000 in 2025 that has not been repaid. The lawsuit seeks a judgment of $121,260 with interest for breach of contract and loan repayment.
Britton has denied these allegations, stating in court documents that no breach of contract occurred. He maintained that his decision to terminate the agreement was driven by feeling trapped and unsafe at the property, not by any attempt to avoid financial obligations.
Health Considerations Cited
Brendon's legal representation addressed the court regarding his client's physical condition, describing him as having multiple disabilities that qualify under the Americans with Disabilities Act. The attorney characterized Brendon as a calm individual with significant physical limitations who poses no threat.
Court filings indicate that Brendon purchased the Ohio property to address various medical needs, including recovery from a spinal injury and cardiac incident. Fortier was identified in documents as assisting Brendon with his health challenges.
Brendon denied any intimidation or threatening behavior, stating in court documents that threatening people is not part of his character.
The civil case remains ongoing in Ohio courts. Representatives for Brendon have not provided additional comment on the matter.
