Richard Simmons’ brother, Leonard Simmons, recently filed a petition accusing Teresa, co-administrator of Richard’s estate, of unauthorized property theft. Leonard claimed that Teresa had taken valuable items from Richard’s home without permission, including a $33,000 Cartier 18k panther-style watch and a $47,000 Cartier oval watch.
In response, Teresa denied taking any property from Richard that was not specifically gifted to her, except for a pair of workout shorts she kept as a memento. She stated that the missing jewelry was a gift from Richard, given to her on Thanksgiving in 2014. Teresa detailed how Richard had placed a pink diamond ring on her finger and had given her the rest of the jewelry as a generous gift.
Leonard also alleged that other items, such as Richard’s computer, lyrics for a planned Broadway play, collectible dolls, and fine art pieces, were missing from the home. He petitioned for the return of the missing property and sought damages from Teresa.
After Richard passed away, Leonard asked Teresa to show the jewelry, but several pieces were missing. Teresa claimed that she had been given the jewelry as a gift by Richard and had kept it until she left the residence on September 26, 2024. She also denied being in possession of Richard’s song lyrics and stated that she only had three pairs of striped shorts as mementos.
The housekeeper who had lived and worked with Richard for nearly 36 years also claimed that Leonard was planning to sell Richard’s personal belongings. She expressed concerns that Leonard was preparing to dispose of Richard’s personal effects without Teresa’s input, as outlined in the Trust.
Leonard denied these accusations in a response filing and requested that Teresa not be added back as co-trustee of Richard’s trust. The legal battle over Richard Simmons’ estate continues as both sides present their arguments and evidence in court.
