Donald Sterling's wife wins another round: Judge says ex-companion must return $2.6M to family trust
The wife of former Los Angeles Clippers owner Donald Sterling has won another round in an ongoing court battle over family assets.
Agreeing with Rochelle “Shelly” Sterling that a $1.8 million home and $800,000 in luxury vehicles and cash gifts came out of the married couple’s community property, a Los Angeles judge on Tuesday ruled that Donald Sterling’s former companion, V. Stiviano, must return the assets to a famiy trust, reports the Los Angeles Times (sub. req.).
Rochelle Sterling contended that Stiviano seduced the 80-year-old Sterling (they have denied a sexual relationship) and manipulated him into giving up assets. His wife blames Stiviano for the loss of the Clippers, which was sparked by recorded racist comments that were leaked to the media, reports USA Today.
Stiviano’s lawyer, Mac Nehoray, said she is “very disappointed” with the ruling by Superior Court Judge Richard Fruin Jr. and will appeal. “Judges are supposed to interpret the laws, not make them,” Nehoray said in an email to the media.
CNN, KABC and LAist also have stories.
Related coverage:
ABAJournal.com: “NBA reportedly accuses Sterling of trying to persuade Stiviano to lie about the infamous recording”
ABAJournal.com: “Donald Sterling is combative on stand, calls lawyer a ‘smartass’”
ABAJournal.com: “Clippers can be sold, judge says in tentative ruling against Donald Sterling”
Associated Press: “Stiviano speaks about Sterling, recording”
