Police probe missing cash from Aretha’s £60m estate
DETECTIVES have launched a fraud probe into money missing from Aretha Franklin’s £61million legacy.
The investigation began before the Queen of Soul’s death from pancreatic cancer last year, age 76.
A battle is already under way over the Respect and Chain Of Fools singer’s estate. It involves her four sons, ranging in age from 48 to 64, and an ex-fiance.
But the legal showdown has been put on hold while police look into the finances of Aretha, who did not leave a will.
Scott McCanham, the police chief at Bloomfield, Michigan, would not say how much cash was missing but confirmed: “This investigation is one of financial fraud,” adding that the case was started before the diva’s passing.
Aretha’s estate has continued to function since her death. Last month it was revealed that it had paid out £4million in tax.
A family source said: “The fraud investigation has really hit hard. Everyone was hoping all
MANSION: Diva’s former family home in Detroit was sold after her death for £230k
the personal disputes and issues would be sorted out this year.
“But those expecting a pay-out anytime soon are going to be very disappointed.
“We’re told this could drag on for months or years.”
Under Michigan state law, the lack of a will would normally mean Aretha’s estate would be divided equally between her children.
But following a claim by ex-fireman Willie Wilkerson, 72, who says he had an “on-off romance” with the soul icon for 30 years, the case was assigned to Oakland County Probate Court for a ruling. This is now on hold.
Aretha’s oldest sons – Clarence, 64, and Edward Franklin, 61, – are said to want a settlement deal with Willie, saying he deserves “something” for the time he spent with their mother.
Her youngest sons – Ted White Jr., 54 and Kecalf Cunningham, 48 – are reportedly “completely opposed” to a pay-out, however.
A family source said: “Clarence and Edward think it’s only fair he gets a slice but Ted and Kecalf want to send him packing empty-handed.
“They believe he was only ever after her money from the very beginning.”
Despite the fraud probe, Aretha’s estate will get a financial boost from a Hollywood movie based on her autobiography Aretha: From These Roots.