Rob Ford’s widow accuses Doug of financial fumbling
Renata Ford wants $15-million for mishandling estate
TORONTO — Doug Ford is denying allegations he mishandled the estate of his late brother Rob Ford, causing financial harm to the late mayor’s widow and two children.
The allegations were contained in a lawsuit filed by Renata Ford and her two children in Ontario court.
Renata Ford accuses Doug Ford, who was the trustee of her husband’s estate, and his brother Randy of breach of trust and “negligent mismanagement” of the family businesses, which were started by their father.
The statement of claim alleges after the death of Rob Ford Sr., the responsibility for the management and direction of the Deco Companies was assumed by Doug Ford and Randy Ford and they have since destroyed the value of the companies.
It further alleges Doug and Randy Ford arranged for and received very significant compensation from the Deco Companies, including extravagant salaries, bonuses, travel and car allowances and other benefits, which were paid regardless of the financial performance of those businesses. The statement of claim, a copy of which was posted online by Toronto media, alleges Doug Ford knowingly and deliberately put Renata Ford and her children in a “highly stressful and unfair financial position” after her husband’s death in 2016.
The lawsuit seeks damages in excess of $15 million from the defendants.
Doug Ford said Monday in a statement the allegations are completely false and he will fight them in court.
“Renata’s lawyers have been clear to us throughout this campaign that either we hand over money, or they would go public with these false claims, and that is exactly what they have done, with three days to go until the election,” he said.