Elvis Presley

Crying at Elvis's Grave? Only if You’re Planning a Heist!

Elvis's legacy takes a wild turn with a bizarre scheme to defraud his family. Find out how a Missouri woman aimed for Graceland!

This summer, rock reporter Erica Banas took a trip to Graceland, a pilgrimage of sorts for fans of The King. Amid the sea of Elvis memorabilia and excitement from fellow fans, Erica had a moment of reflection at his grave that left her teary-eyed yet inspired. Worshipped for his contributions to music, Elvis remains an enduring icon, and while many fans express their love through glitzy tributes or peaceful visits, the unfortunate side to Elvis's legacy has recently come to light in a rather bizarre twist.

Enter Lisa Jeanine Findley, a 53-year-old woman from Kimberling City, Missouri, who is now the talk of the tabloids after being arrested on federal charges for a scheme to defraud Elvis's family out of their ownership of Graceland. According to federal prosecutors, she concocted an elaborate ruse that involved not just cunning plans but also identity theft and extortion to snag ownership of the famed estate. It’s enough to make any Elvis fan shake their head in disbelief! What's next? A bid for the spangled jumpsuits?

The scheme, which involved attempts to steal millions from the late star's estate, paints a picture of how some individuals will go to wild lengths to stake their claim in musical history. Legal experts have chimed in, sending chills up the spines of those who thought fame and fortune would scare away all the pesky fraudsters. The alleged actions of Findley may echo her own shady aspirations of hanging out in the king's castle (a.k.a. Graceland), which undoubtedly makes us question, “What would Elvis think?”

While it's easy to chuckle at the absurdity of the situation, fans and Elvis historians acknowledge the genuine emotional connection that comes with visiting his grave—often a bittersweet experience that evokes nostalgia and sorrow for what was lost. More than just a place of rest, it remains a shrine to a musical genius who changed the world. And while some may cry at his grave, others—like Findley—might seek to profit from his legacy in dubious ways.

It’s essential to note that Graceland has stood the test of time since it opened to the public in 1982 and is a certified cultural landmark, receiving over 650,000 visitors each year. Meanwhile, Elvis’s estate continues to thrive, with annual revenue reaching millions—proving that even in death, the King rules the world of rock and roll. So while some may plot to snag a piece of the pie, true fans know there's far more to Elvis than meets the eye, like the hidden treasures in his vast discography!