Gina Heslop
Joanne Harrison, the mother of Rick Harrison from the reality TV show “Pawn Stars,” has filed a civil case against her son and related corporate entities. The lawsuit involves disputes over the assets and ownership of the Las Vegas-based pawn shop that appeared on the show. Harrison’s lawyers have initiated a civil lawsuit in a Nevada state court, naming Rick, his mother, Gold & Silver Pawn Shop, Harrison Properties, and JoRich Properties as defendants.
Joanne alleges that Rick used undue pressure to obtain most of her share in the pawnshop while she was in the hospital in 2000 or 2001. Rick denies the allegations and refutes charges that he abused his 81-year-old mother, who was married to her spouse for 58 years until his death. Joanne purchased Richard’s 49 percent interest in the company shortly after his death in 2018, but Rick has yet to provide her with the exact financial details of the company.
In addition, Joanne claims that she cannot obtain a full accounting of the more than $500,000 in cash and silver that her husband allegedly accumulated before his death. As a result, she is seeking specific damages and an order prohibiting Rick from accessing her money, as well as placing all of Joanne’s belongings in trust.
The History Channel featured a segment in 2009 in which the family’s grandson, Richard Corey Harrison, and a close friend, Austin “Chumlee” Russell, traveled to the pawn store. The show ran for 15 seasons, becoming one of the History Channel’s most successful programs. The pawn shop became famous for its unique items and the fascinating stories behind them. The shop continues to operate, but Rick’s legal battle with his mother over the ownership of the company might lead to changes in its management and operation.
In conclusion, the civil case filed by Joanne Harrison against her son Rick and related corporate entities highlights the importance of ensuring transparency and fairness in the distribution of family-owned assets. The case underscores the need for proper estate planning and management to avoid disputes and conflicts that can arise among family members.
