Judge finds Tom Benson competent to run his sports empire
WGNO Web Desk
New Orleans Saints owner Tom Benson (R), and his wife Gayle Benson. (Jason Miller/Getty Images)
NEW ORLEANS (WGNO) – A judge has ruled that Tom Benson is competent to run the New Orleans Saints and Pelicans. Judge Kern Reese denied Tom’s daughter Renee Benson and her children, Rita LeBlanc and Ryan LeBlanc, control over Tom’s billions and sports empire. Read the official ruling here.
In the ruling, judge Reese quoted two psychiatrists’ opinion that “Tom Benson has sustained a mild cognitive impairment that has impacted his short-term memory, but does not rob him of his volition and ability to make reasoned decisions.”
Tom Benson is 87-years old.
Statement from Saints & Pelicans Owner Tom Benson
Gayle and I wish to thank the entire community for the overwhelming support that we have received during this trying time. Through it all, our fans and our sponsors showed unwavering support for our Saints and Pelicans.
We just finished minicamp in front of so many of our great fans and I cannot wait for training camp to start in late July.
On Monday, we will introduce our new Pelicans Head Coach Alvin Gentry. Our football and basketball teams are my focus and that is what has me excited.
And finally, I would like to personally and sincerely thank everyone that worked on this case on our behalf – the lawyers and the staff at the Saints and Pelicans. Now I say let’s go win another Super Bowl and an NBA Championship.
Statement from Renee Benson’s attorney Thomas Benson, Jr.
Our clients, Renee Benson and Rita and Ryan LeBlanc, are disappointed that the Court opted not to appoint a Curator and Undercurator today to protect their father and grandfather, as well as the teams and businesses.
For his sake, and that of the fans, customers, and employees, they will continue to take whatever steps are necessary to assure his well-being and that of the Saints, Pelicans, and Benson Automobile dealerships.
When the news came down Thursday, Tom Benson was with former President Bush and his wife Barbara at their home in Maine.
Tom Benson’s competency trial began June 1 and wrapped up June 12.
