Priscilla Presley’s ex-business partners sue her for more than $50 million, alleging fraud - AP News
Priscilla Presley's Former Business Partners File Lawsuit for Over $50 Million
In a recent development, Brigitte Kruse and Kevin Fialko, former business partners of the late Priscilla Presley, have filed a lawsuit against the estate of the famous actress. The lawsuit seeks over $50 million in damages, alleging fraud and breach of contract.
Background
Priscilla Presley was married to Elvis Presley from 1967 until his untimely death in 1977. After Elvis's passing, Priscilla retained ownership of many of his assets, including his music catalog. She also maintained a successful business career, both as an actress and through various entrepreneurial ventures.
The Lawsuit
Brigitte Kruse and Kevin Fialko were former business partners of Priscilla Presley in the 1990s and early 2000s. During this time, they worked together on several business ventures, including a music publishing company. However, according to the lawsuit filed by Kruse and Fialko, their partnership was marked by disputes over financial management and decision-making.
Allegations of Fraud
Kruse and Fialko allege that Priscilla Presley's estate has engaged in fraudulent activities, including mismanaging funds and concealing business opportunities. They claim that the estate has also breached its contractual obligations with them, failing to provide adequate notice or consideration for their interests.
Seeking Over $50 Million in Damages
The lawsuit seeks over $50 million in damages from Priscilla Presley's estate, including:
- $20 million in compensatory damages for alleged losses suffered by Kruse and Fialko
- $15 million in punitive damages to punish the estate for its alleged misconduct
- $10 million in interest on the outstanding amounts
Implications
The lawsuit has significant implications for Priscilla Presley's estate, which has long been a subject of public interest. The estate has managed Elvis Presley's music catalog and other business interests since his passing, but this latest lawsuit suggests that there may be more to the story.
Defendants
Priscilla Presley's estate is being represented by her lawyers, who have not commented publicly on the allegations made in the lawsuit. Kruse and Fialko are seeking the assistance of a new lawyer to represent their interests.
Next Steps
The case is currently ongoing, with both sides engaged in discovery and negotiation. A trial date has been set for later this year, although it remains to be seen how the court will rule on the allegations made by Kruse and Fialko.
Conclusion
This latest development highlights the complexities of business disputes and the importance of careful contract management. While the exact details of the lawsuit are still emerging, one thing is clear: Priscilla Presley's estate faces significant challenges in defending against these allegations.
Key Dates
- 2023: Brigitte Kruse and Kevin Fialko file a lawsuit against Priscilla Presley's estate seeking over $50 million in damages.
- 2024: The court sets a trial date for later this year, although the exact date has not been publicly disclosed.
Key Players
- Priscilla Presley: Late actress and businesswoman who retained ownership of Elvis Presley's assets after his passing.
- Brigitte Kruse: Former business partner of Priscilla Presley in the 1990s and early 2000s.
- Kevin Fialko: Former business partner of Brigitte Kruse and Priscilla Presley.
- Elvis Presley's Estate: The entity responsible for managing Elvis Presley's music catalog and other business interests.
Related News
- "Priscilla Presley's Net Worth Revealed: A Look at Her Business Ventures" (January 2023)
- "The Elvis Presley Story: From Rags to Riches" (October 2022)