Priscilla Presley, ex-wife of Elvis Presley, has taken legal action against four former business associates for financial elder abuse and fraud, alleging she was conned out of more than $1 million.
In a complaint filed in Los Angeles, Presley names Florida-based memorabilia auctioneer Brigitte Kruse as a primary defendant. Presley claims that Kruse and others forced her into unfavorable business deals that stripped her of 80 percent of her income, describing Kruse as a "con-artist" and "pathological liar."
"This action arises out of a meticulously planned and abhorrent scheme by the defendants to prey on an older woman by gaining her trust and isolating her from her support system," the lawsuit states.
Kruse and her legal team have responded, noting they have not received the lawsuit and are awaiting further information. Previously, Kruse sued Presley for breach of contract in Florida, alleging Presley unlawfully exited their business arrangement.
Allegations of Manipulation and Fraud
The lawsuit details how Kruse ingratiated herself into Presley’s life in 2021, convincing her to distrust her previous advisors and sign fraudulent contracts. Presley claims she was charged unnecessary fees and her accounts were moved to banks favored by the defendants. Additionally, she alleges she was made to pay the mortgage for a home owned by Kruse’s husband.
A crucial business deal involving a cosmetics company was also sabotaged, according to the lawsuit. Instead of receiving a lucrative ownership stake, Presley was given a one-time payment.
Seeking Justice and Recovery
Presley, 79, is demanding at least $1 million in general damages, punitive damages, and attorney’s fees. She also seeks to nullify all fraudulent agreements and regain control of her finances.
While the lawsuit aims to address the financial losses, Presley acknowledges the personal damage inflicted by the defendants' actions may take years to heal.
For more on this story, you can read the coverage on Rolling Stone, People, and Fox News.
For additional resources on protecting yourself from financial elder abuse, visit AARP's resource page and National Adult Protective Services Association.