Former Child Star Erik von Detten Faces Fraud and Elder Abuse Lawsuit Over Gold Investments
An elderly couple has filed a lawsuit in California accusing former child actor Erik von Detten of fraud and elder abuse over a gold coin investment totaling more than $2 million, TMZ reported. Sheila Greenberg, 85, and Norman Greenberg, 97, initiated the legal action against von Detten and his former employer, Rosland Capital, a firm specializing in precious metals.
The Greenbergs stated they initially contacted Rosland Capital in 2020 after viewing a television advertisement, which led them to von Detten. According to court documents, the couple informed the former actor that they possessed limited knowledge about gold but held approximately $2 million ready for investment. The suit claims von Detten presented himself as highly knowledgeable and capable of assisting them with the purchases.
The couple completed an initial purchase of Lady Liberty gold coins valued at approximately $1 million. Court filings indicate the physical coins were not delivered to the Greenbergs, but were instead placed into a storage warehouse. A short time later, the couple executed a second purchase of another $1 million in coins.
The lawsuit alleges that the plaintiffs later discovered the acquired coins held a significantly lower market value than the purchase price. The Greenbergs claim they invested $2.1 million in total, while the actual value of the metals amounted to only $1.3 million. The complaint seeks $900,000 in damages alongside punitive damages.
Rosland Capital Bankruptcy Filing Follows Legal Action
Months after the Greenbergs filed their civil complaint, Rosland Capital filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection. The precious metals firm, which the lawsuit claims specifically targets senior citizens by exploiting vulnerability and financial fears, has not released a public statement addressing the specific allegations brought by Sheila and Norman Greenberg.
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