Priscilla Presley Alleges Financial Abuse in Explosive Lawsuit
Priscilla Presley, the ex-wife of the legendary Elvis Presley, is making shocking allegations of financial abuse. According to a lawsuit filed on Thursday, July 18, Presley claims that Brigitte Kruse, along with several others, exploited her trust and stole $1 million. This revelation has sent shockwaves through the pop culture and celebrity community, raising concerns about the vulnerability of aging stars to financial exploitation.
The Accusations
A Trusted Connection Turns Sour
Priscilla Presley, 79, alleges that Brigitte Kruse, the founder of Kruse GWS Auctions, along with Kevin Fialko, Vahe Sislyan, Lynn Walker Wright, and Priscilla Presley Partners, manipulated and controlled her finances. The lawsuit claims that Kruse isolated Presley from her long-time advisors and convinced her that they were deceitful, thereby gaining control over her financial matters.
Manipulative Tactics
The filing details how Kruse allegedly immersed herself in Presley’s life by late 2021, after initially meeting to discuss the sale of Elvis memorabilia. Presley claims Kruse and her associates convinced her she was financially unstable, pushing her to create companies where her associates received 80% of the income, leaving Presley with minority shares. Additionally, Presley alleges that funds from the Sofia Coppola-directed biopic “Priscilla” were misappropriated.
Power of Attorney and Bank Accounts
The documents state that Kruse and the other defendants fraudulently obtained power of attorney over Presley, gaining control of her personal and family trusts, as well as her bank accounts. In one instance, $40,000 was allegedly withdrawn from her son Navarone Garcia’s bank account without legitimate reason or notification.
Legal and Financial Fallout
Seeking Justice
Priscilla Presley is seeking to have the license and operating agreements for the so-called “sham companies” rescinded. She aims to block the defendants from accessing her financial accounts and hold them accountable for their alleged wrongful actions.
Past Connections and Alleged Breach of Contract
In a twist, Kruse had previously sued Presley in September 2023 for an alleged breach of contract after forming Priscilla Presley Partners. Reports indicate that Presley abruptly cut off communication with Kruse around August 2023, suggesting a deteriorating relationship.
Public Statements and Reactions
Priscilla’s Perspective
An attorney for Priscilla Presley had no comment when reached by PEOPLE, nor did her son, Navarone Garcia. However, in September 2021, Presley spoke to PEOPLE about her collaboration with Kruse GWS Auctions, expressing a positive outlook on estate sales. “I used to have a different opinion about these estate sales, but then as I got older I realized that you have to pass these things down to someone who’ll really appreciate them,” Presley said.
Kruse’s Response
Kruse’s legal team has stated, “We cannot respond because counsel has not been served with a copy of the lawsuit. We have alerted Ms. Presley’s attorneys that we do not have a copy of this filing but they have not responded.”
Impact and Implications
A Cautionary Tale
The allegations against Kruse and her associates highlight the potential risks of financial exploitation that celebrities and older individuals can face. Priscilla Presley’s case underscores the importance of vigilant financial oversight and the need for trusted advisors who prioritize their clients’ well-being.
Celebrity Vulnerability
This case also brings to light the broader issue of celebrity vulnerability. Aging stars, in particular, may find themselves targeted by those seeking to exploit their fame and fortune. As the legal proceedings unfold, the public will be watching closely to see how justice is served.
