Priscilla Presley's lawyer has defended her lawsuit against four former business associates, accusing them of "meticulously planned" financial elder abuse. Presley claims she was duped out of $1 million by the individuals and has filed a lawsuit alleging financial elder abuse, fraud in the inducement, breach of fiduciary duty, and legal malpractice.
Priscilla Presley's lawyer, Martin Singer, has issued a statement defending the actress's lawsuit against four former business associates, accusing them of "meticulously planned" financial elder abuse. Elvis Presley's ex-wife has accused Brigitte Kruse, Kevin Fialko, Vahe Sislyan, and Lynn Walker Wright of duping her out of $1 million through fraudulent agreements.
"Contrary to the false statement that Priscilla's lawsuit against Brigitte Kruse and Kevin Fialko was 'retaliatory,' the fact is that when Priscilla uncovered their unlawful scheme against her nearly a year ago, Priscilla made claims against them for the substantial monies they had wrongfully funneled to themselves," Singer told Fox News Digital.
Priscilla Presley's Lawyer Defends Lawsuit Against Former Business Associates
Presley, 79, claims that the former associates had planned to force her into "indentured servitude," where they would receive the "lion's share" of any future revenue earned. She alleges that Kruse, who ran an Elvis Presley memorabilia shop, gained her trust and isolated her from her advisors, convincing her that she was losing out on millions.
"By isolating her and immersing themselves in every aspect of her life, the Defendants were able to fraudulently induce Presley into giving them power of attorney, control over her family and personal trusts, and control over her bank accounts," the court documents stated.
Priscilla Presley's Lawyer Defends Lawsuit Against Former Business Associates
Kruse and her associates have denied the allegations, claiming that Presley's lawsuit is "retaliatory" to a lawsuit they filed against her in Florida for breach of contract. They have accused Presley of using her celebrity status to damage their reputations.
However, Presley's lawyer has slammed these claims, stating that the actress is a victim of "unscrupulous financial elder abuse." He is seeking a trial by jury and no less than $1 million in damages, plus attorney's fees and special and punitive damages.
Priscilla Presley's Lawyer Defends Lawsuit Against Former Business Associates
Kruse and her associates have not yet filed a response to Presley's lawsuit. The case is currently pending in Los Angeles Superior Court.
The lawsuit highlights the importance of older adults being aware of financial elder abuse and protecting themselves from exploitation. Presley's case has brought attention to this issue and serves as a reminder that everyone, regardless of age or celebrity status, can be a potential target for financial abuse.
Priscilla Presley's Lawyer Defends Lawsuit Against Former Business Associates
It is crucial for those who suspect that they or a loved one may be experiencing financial elder abuse to seek help immediately. There are resources available to assist victims and hold perpetrators accountable. Guardianship or conservatorship arrangements may need to be considered to protect vulnerable individuals.
Financial institutions and family members should be vigilant in monitoring the financial activities of older adults and reporting any suspicious transactions or changes in behavior. By working together, we can help prevent financial elder abuse and protect our loved ones from exploitation.
Priscilla Presley's Lawyer Defends Lawsuit Against Former Business Associates
