In a recent legal development, a judge has ruled that certain items from the sale of O.J. Simpson’s property must be withdrawn. This decision follows a claim by Simpson’s children that some of the auction items rightfully belong to them. Simpson, the former football star who was previously acquitted of murder charges, passed away on April 10 from prostate cancer at his Las Vegas home.
Goldin Auctions is managing the sale of his possessions, with the auction scheduled to conclude on March 29. The estate faces significant financial obligations, including a $117 million claim from Fred Goldman, father of Ron Goldman. Valued at approximately $328,000, the estate is being liquidated to address these debts.
Before the hearing, Simpson’s estate had already removed some contested items, such as a grand piano and family photos, from the auction. District Judge Jessica Peterson has now ordered the removal of additional items claimed by Simpson’s children, including a photo of Simpson with his mother, a vermouth poster, and a collection of ceramic and glass pieces. The ownership of certain items, like the piano, will be determined in a future evidentiary hearing.
Judge Peterson awarded a 1984 softball trophy to Arnelle Simpson, who originally won it. She emphasized that while photos featuring only O.J. Simpson could be auctioned, family photos should remain with the family to protect their privacy.
Attorney Jack Juan, representing Arnelle and Justin Simpson, raised concerns about the potential public exposure of family pictures. He also noted that the estate had been delayed in filing a complete inventory, which still needs to include the contents of two storage units. Special Administrator Malcolm LaVergne assured the court of a thorough inventory filing.
LaVergne expressed concerns about the financial impact of the evidentiary hearing on the estate’s assets, while Judge Peterson encouraged the parties to reach an agreement before proceeding to a hearing.
