Montel Williams Slams Salahis; Sends Cease & Desist Letter
Aug. 26 2011, Published 6:00 a.m. ET
By Alexis Tereszcuk - RadarOnline.com Senior Reporter
Montel Williams wants nothing to do with Michaele and Tareq Salahi, and Radaronline.com has learned he is taking legal action against the "White House Gate Crashers" for using his name without permission to promote an event.
The winery the notorious Salahis own in Virginia is at the center of the latest scandal. RadarOnline.com exclusively reported that the winery was being auctioned off on September 18, but despite the government ordered sale, the pair plan to host an event at the location and have promoted the special guest appearance of Montel Williams.
However, he won't be at the event and his rep Jonathan Franks has fired off a cease and desist letter to the organizers of the event.
"It has come to our attention that a group apparently associated with Tareq and Michaele Salahi have announced that Mr. Williams will be attending an event at their Oasis Winery in Virginia and that Montel Williams' MS Foundation is also a supporter -- neither is true. The use of Mr. Williams' name without his permission is unacceptable, and Mr. Williams' attorneys intend to pursue all available legal remedies in this matter," Franks said in a statement to RadarOnline.com.
"Even worse, it appears that the Salahis, whose bizarre behavior has been widely reported, are attempting to piggy-back off of Montel's record of advocacy on behalf of MS sufferers worldwide to advance the apparent re-opening of their failed winery. That is inexcusable.
"Throughout the day our office has been contacted by multiple governmental agencies, including law enforcement investigating the group responsible for this event. Aside from pursuing all civil legal remedies available, Montel's office intends to cooperate with regulators and law enforcement investigating this matter."
The former Real Housewives of DC stars have been at the center of numerous legal disputes with their vineyard and with multiple people filing lawsuits against them and their business.
RELATED STORIES:
Michaele And Tareq Salahi Sued AGAIN For Alleged Wine Tour Fraud
Michaele & Tareq Salahi Sued For Alleged Wine Tour Fraud
Michaele Salahi Debuts Music Talents On Live TV — Watch The Video!