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Astor's Kin May Battle Behind Closed Doors
By
Jen Chung
Published Aug 29, 2006
Modified Mar 7, 2008
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By
Jen Chung
Published Aug 29, 2006
Modified Mar 7, 2008
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The son and grandson of Brooke Astor are trying to keep the public out of the courtroom when they discuss guardianship of one of the city's most generous philanthropists. Clearly, Philip Marshall, Astor's grandson who accuses his father, Anthony Marshall, of mishandling the 104 year old's care and estate, as well as Anthony Marshall believe that the case will get dirty, though it's hard to believe it would be dirtier than claims that Astor was kept in old nightgowns on a dog urine-smelling couch. A lawyer for Philip Marshall says that since the hearings will be very detailed, "Mrs. Astor should not be punished because of her generosity. If anything, she is entitled to more consideration, not less." But media organizations aren't having it - it's a case about one of the most famous families, and it's got accusations of elder abuse, too, and the media lawyer said that by closing the hearings, it would send the message that "it isn't the same system for you and me and the Joe walking down the street as it is for Mrs. Astor...people who are wealthy have closed proceedings."
However, Anthony Marshall's lawyer says that since his client has received threatening phone calls from people, the case should be closed. If you've been following the case, Anthony Marshall, Astor's only son, has been pretty much tried in the press - and all the papers love noting various missteps of his wife, Charlene (the wife who ran off with Marshall by leaving her preacher husband). For instance, the NY Times found out that part of Astor's money was funding a charity Charlene oversaw, only it's unclear whether or not it's a real charity. Clearly, this plot will thicken and, for that, we'd like the press to be present. A judge is expected to rule soon.
Tagged
abuse
Anthony Marshall
Brooke Astor
charity
love
media
money
News: NYC
ny times
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the city
Jen Chung
Jen Chung is a former WNYC and Gothamist editor.
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