Key Highlights
- Priscilla Presley is accused of pulling the plug on her daughter Lisa Marie to cash in on a life insurance policy.
- The lawsuit claims Priscilla’s actions were driven by a “thirst for money” and “power.”
- Former business partners Brigitte Kruse and Kevin Fialko filed the cross-complaint against Priscilla Presley.
- Priscilla denies the allegations, calling them “absurd and completely without merit.”
The Shocking Allegations Against Priscilla Presley
In a bombshell lawsuit filed in response to an elder abuse claim by Elvis Presley’s widow, former business partners Brigitte Kruse and Kevin Fialko have accused 80-year-old Priscilla Presley of exploiting her daughter Lisa Marie for financial gain. The allegations detail a series of actions allegedly taken by Priscilla shortly before and after the death of her 54-year-old daughter in 2016.
Kruse and Fialko claim that they were once part of a business venture with Priscilla, but their relationship soured. In their cross-complaint, they allege that Priscilla was willing to “exploit” anyone for personal gain, including her own daughter Lisa Marie. According to the lawsuit, Priscilla saw an opportunity to cash in on a $25 million life insurance policy when Lisa Marie fell ill and ultimately passed away.
Exploitation and Control
The lawsuit details how Priscilla allegedly rushed to West Hills Hospital when Lisa Marie was admitted after suffering cardiac arrest. Despite Lisa’s clear directive to “prolong her life,” the lawsuit states that Priscilla pulled the plug within hours of admission, effectively ending Lisa’s treatment before her granddaughter Riley Keough could arrive.
Further allegations suggest that Priscilla’s actions were motivated by a desire for financial gain and power. The lawsuit claims that Lisa Marie was facing significant financial pressures, including a $914,408.61 IRS bill and revoked passport.
By removing herself as the sole trustee of the life insurance policy’s trust, Lisa Marie aimed to secure access to its funds. However, according to Kruse and Fialko, Priscilla intercepted this plan by ending her daughter’s life, thereby neutralizing any threat to her control over the policy.
Denials and Legal Battles
In response to these allegations, Priscilla Presley’s attorney Marty Singer called them “absurd and completely without merit.” He stated that the claims are a “sad and vicious attempt to tarnish the reputation of an 80-year-old woman” and are unrelated to the elder abuse claims against Kruse and Fialko.
Priscilla’s granddaughter Riley Keough also defended her in a joint statement, asserting that these allegations were not only untrue but deeply hurtful. “Our family is, and always has been, united in love and respect for one another,” they said.
The Broader Context
These allegations come at a time when Priscilla Presley is already entangled in legal battles with her former business partners. The case highlights the complex dynamics within the Presley family, particularly around financial management and control of Elvis’s legacy.
Legal experts suggest that such allegations could have significant implications for how family businesses are managed and the responsibilities of guardianship. They also raise questions about the ethical boundaries when it comes to financial decisions made in the name of preserving a family legacy.
The ongoing legal proceedings may provide further insights into the events surrounding Lisa Marie’s death and Priscilla Presley’s actions. As the case unfolds, it will be crucial for all parties involved to present evidence that can withstand scrutiny in court.