Court Fight Over $1M Estate Left to Male Escort

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A legal battle is unfolding over the $1 million estate of Janet Henry, a deceased B.C. woman. Her controversial will leaves most of her assets to a male escort, Simon Garstin. The will, made in August 2021, has sparked accusations from Henry’s family and friends. They allege that Garstin, nearly 54 years younger than Henry, unduly influenced her when she decided to bequeath him her estate.

Male Escort
Photo via B.C. Supreme Court: A screenshot included in an affidavit allegedly shows an escort profile for Simon Garstin, also known as Sam Gaines. Janet Henry’s niece and nephew claim Garstin was ‘dominant’ in his relationship with the then-84-year-old Henry, whose last will named him as the beneficiary of the bulk of her estate.

The Controversial Will

Janet Henry, who passed away in November 2021 at the age of 84, left most of her estate to Simon Garstin, a professional companion described by the court as a male escort. Henry’s niece and nephew, Jillian and Ross McCrone, are challenging the will. They argue that their aunt lacked the mental capacity to understand the will or its impact. They also claim that Garstin “dominated” Henry and had control over her during her final months, especially when she wrote the will.

In addition to the McCrone siblings’ challenge, an old friend of Henry’s, Douglas Wilson, has entered the fray. Wilson, who was a friend of Henry’s for over a decade, is contesting the will, which would have made him the beneficiary in an earlier version of the will from February 2021.

Accusations of Undue Influence

The McCrones argue that Henry, isolated and lonely during the COVID-19 pandemic, became vulnerable and was influenced by Garstin. They allege that Garstin took advantage of Henry’s emotional state, with their relationship growing more intimate. Garstin became increasingly involved in her life. Their claim is supported by a series of WhatsApp messages between Garstin and Henry. These messages, they argue, show Garstin becoming controlling and dominant in his communications.

Male Escort
Photo via B.C. Supreme Court: Jillian McCrore included screenshots of what she claims are WhatsApp messages between Henry and Garstin. The top message is allegedly from Garstin, while the bottom one is from Henry.

Garstin denies the claims, describing Henry as independent and “sophisticated.” He insists that their relationship was based on a paid arrangement for companionship. Garstin argues that Henry made her decisions freely, and that her estate plan, including the bequest to him, was made with full understanding and intent.

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A Complex Legal Drama

The court proceedings will determine whether the will stands or if it is overturned due to the allegations of undue influence. B.C. Supreme Court Justice Gary P. Weatherill has allowed the McCrones and Wilson’s claims to proceed, and a trial is scheduled for June 30, 2025. Garstin maintains that the will is valid and reflects Henry’s final intentions.

Family and Friend Reactions

The McCrones are frustrated, especially after learning that Garstin was named the primary beneficiary in the latest will. They argue that their aunt, who had no children and lost her husband years ago, was vulnerable in her later years. They believe she was manipulated by Garstin.

Garstin’s defense, however, insists that Henry was in control of her decisions. He claims there was no undue influence. He points to her independent lifestyle and financial comfort as proof that she was not vulnerable when she made the will.

What do you think about this legal dispute? Should Garstin inherit the estate, or do you believe the will was influenced by undue pressure? 

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