Help Me Seek Justice for Defamation and Art Theft

My name is Susana De Leon, known professionally as Timoi. I’m an artist, advocate, and survivor. For over two decades, I’ve poured my heart into building a creative universe filled with big eye doll characters, colors, and meaning, all while mentoring youth, uplifting women, and standing firm in the face of adversity.

But for the last several years, I’ve been the target of a relentless campaign of defamation and intellectual property theft. A former mentee of mine, Sandra Merlos known on the internet as Sand Oner, has not only stolen my original art, ideas, and identity, but has also spread cryptic, coded, and now openly false accusations about me online. These lies have deeply harmed my reputation, isolated me from the very community I helped build, and caused years of emotional, professional, and financial distress.

When I first met Sand in late 2008, she was just beginning to explore art by painting windows. I introduced her to street art, guided her through the culture, and gave her platforms to grow, even inviting her into major shows with top notch artists. She didn’t have to start from scratch or pay dues I had to pay. I believed in her potential. But instead of gratitude, I was met with betrayal. She copied my graffiti name tag, created derivative versions of my characters, and denied my influence entirely. Then, she began a covert smear campaign, accusing me of things I would never do. As a lifelong advocate for women and youth, these lies were not just hurtful, they were damaging beyond words.

Despite being called weak, I never responded with violence. I chose justice. I spent years gathering evidence, staying silent while I pieced the truth together. That time has come. With your help, I’m taking her to court, not just for myself, but to protect the integrity of my work, my voice, and others who’ve been silenced by intimidation or manipulation.

Many fans and supporters have encouraged me to crowdfund so I don’t face this legal battle alone. I’m raising $15,000 to cover legal fees and court costs. Every dollar helps. Every share matters.

Please donate, share this campaign, and help me tell the truth loud enough to be heard. I’m not doing this out of revenge, I’m doing it to reclaim my story, protect my legacy, and stand up for artists who’ve been wronged.

Thank you for standing with me.

With love and resilience,

Timoi