Tennessee Attorney General Investigates Graceland Foreclosure Controversy

The Tennessee Attorney General has initiated an investigation into the ongoing dispute over Graceland, following a judge's decision to pause a foreclosure attempt by an alleged creditor. The creditor had claimed ownership of the estate based on a purported loan agreement with Lisa Marie Presley.

Investigation Details

Attorney General Jonathan Skrmetti announced the probe into Naussany Investments and Private Lending LLC, the entity asserting that Lisa Marie Presley used Graceland as collateral for a $3.8 million loan. Lisa Marie Presley, who passed away last year, left her estate to her daughter, Riley Keough. Keough has challenged the validity of the loan, alleging that her mother’s signature was forged.

Graceland’s Historical Context

Lisa Marie Presley, the sole heir to Elvis Presley’s estate, inherited Graceland in 1977 at the age of nine. The property, including all associated assets, is held in a trust that Keough now controls. Graceland, a major cultural landmark, has been preserved and operated by the Presley family for over four decades.

Attorney General Skrmetti highlighted Graceland's cultural significance, stating, "Graceland is one of Tennessee's most iconic landmarks. My office is committed to investigating any potential misconduct and ensuring the protection of Elvis Presley’s heirs and others who might face similar threats."

Legal Developments

On Wednesday, Shelby County Chancery Court Chancellor JoeDae L. Jenkins postponed the foreclosure sale, citing the likelihood of Keough's success if the fraud allegations were proven. Jenkins emphasized the importance of Graceland to both the local and global community, stating, "The public interest is best served by preserving Graceland, a cherished part of our community and a symbol recognized worldwide."

Scrutiny of Naussany Investments and Private Lending LLC

An NBC News search revealed no public records for Naussany Investments and Private Lending LLC. The company provided addresses in Jacksonville, Florida, and Hollister, Missouri, which correspond to post office locations. Another address was a post office box in Kimberling City, Missouri.

Keough's court filings included emails from a man named Kurt Naussany, who allegedly sought to collect the $3.8 million loan and threatened to sell Graceland. In an email response, an account purportedly belonging to Kurt Naussany denied any involvement, claiming he left the company in 2015, and referred inquiries to Gregory E. Naussany.

Gregory E. Naussany, in a fax to the court, denied the fraud allegations and asserted the company's readiness to provide evidence disproving Keough's claims. Attempts to contact Gregory E. Naussany for further comments were unsuccessful.

Official Statements and Public Reaction

A representative for Graceland assured that the estate remains secure, stating, "The court's decision makes it clear that Graceland is not at risk of changing ownership. We will continue to offer an exceptional experience for Elvis fans worldwide."

Broader Implications

The Attorney General's investigation aims to verify the legitimacy of the loan claim and uncover any fraudulent activities. The findings could have significant consequences not only for the Presley estate but also for others who might face similar legal threats.

Attorney General Skrmetti's inquiry underscores the need for rigorous legal scrutiny in cases involving historic and culturally significant properties. The preservation of Graceland is crucial for maintaining the legacy of Elvis Presley and ensuring its continued role as a cultural landmark for future generations.