Authorities apprehended Lisa Jeanine Findley for allegedly trying to defraud the estate of the late Elvis Presley.
Fox News reported that authorities arrested Lisa, a 53-year-old Missouri resident, for attempting to fraudulently sell Graceland Mansion on the anniversary of Elvis Presley's death.
Authorities charged Findley with mail fraud and aggravated identity theft, accusing her of forging documents and impersonating Presley's daughter, Lisa Marie Presley, to carry out the scheme.
Findley, using a fictitious company, falsely claimed Lisa Marie Presley defaulted on a $3.8 million loan with Graceland as collateral, backed by forged documents.
The fraud was uncovered when foreclosure proceedings began, prompting the Presley family to investigate. Riley Keough and her attorney exposed the deceit, leading to Findley's arrest on the 47th anniversary of Elvis Presley's death.
Nicole M. Argentieri, a lead prosecutor, described the fraudulent acts in the case: "The defendant orchestrated a scheme to conduct a fraudulent sale of Graceland, falsely claiming that Elvis Presley’s daughter had pledged the historic landmark as collateral for a loan that she failed to repay before her death."
The U.S. Postal Inspection Service led the investigation, capturing Findley and potentially preventing further financial harm to the Presley estate.
Eric Shen noted the broader issue of exploiting celebrity status for criminal gain, emphasizing how Findley allegedly sought to profit from the family's public tragedies.
If convicted, Findley faces up to 20 years for mail fraud, with a mandatory two-year minimum for aggravated identity theft.
Moreover, the case highlights the ongoing risks of fraud and identity theft targeting high-profile estates.
Additionally, Eric Shen praised the collaboration that ended the scheme, noting, "Postal Inspectors and law enforcement protected the Presley family from further harm, demonstrating our commitment to justice."
Furthermore, the arrest underscores the need for vigilance in safeguarding celebrity estates and serves as a warning about fraudsters exploiting famous legacies.
Consequently, authorities urge heirs and estate managers to stay alert in defending their rights and properties.
