Priscilla Presley, the former wife of Elvis Presley, has filed a lawsuit against memorabilia auctioneer Brigitte Kruse for alleged financial elder abuse. According to court documents obtained by Rolling Stone, Presley claims that Kruse took advantage of her age and trust to swindle her out of more than $1 million.
In the lawsuit, Presley accuses Kruse of being a “con artist” who manipulated her into making bad business deals. She claims that Kruse convinced her to sell off her valuable Elvis memorabilia at a fraction of its worth and then failed to pay her the promised amount. Presley also alleges that Kruse forged her signature on documents and used her name and image without permission to promote auctions.
Presley’s attorney, Leon Gladstone, stated in a press release, “Ms. Presley is a trusting and generous person who believed in Ms. Kruse’s promises and representations. Unfortunately, Ms. Kruse took advantage of Ms. Presley’s kindness and vulnerability, and we intend to hold her accountable for her actions.”
The lawsuit also accuses Kruse of using Presley’s money to fund her lavish lifestyle, including purchasing luxury cars and expensive vacations. Presley claims that Kruse even convinced her to invest in a failed business venture, resulting in significant financial losses.
Kruse has not yet responded to the lawsuit, but this is not the first time she has faced legal trouble. In 2014, she was sued by another celebrity, actress Olivia Newton-John, for allegedly selling her personal items without permission.
Presley’s lawsuit is seeking damages for financial elder abuse, fraud, and breach of contract. It also requests that Kruse be prohibited from using Presley’s name and likeness for any future auctions.
Presley, now 76 years old, was married to Elvis Presley from 1967 to 1973 and has been the caretaker of his estate since his death in 1977. She has also had a successful career as an actress and businesswoman. This lawsuit serves as a reminder that even the most successful and trusted individuals can fall victim to financial exploitation.
