The estate of OJ Simpson has consented to pay a substantial sum to Ron Goldman’s father years after Simpson was acquitted of the murder charges.
OJ Simpson stood trial in 1994 for the murders of Ron Goldman and Nicole Brown Simpson, earning the label ‘trial of the century’ from many observers.
Although Simpson was found not guilty in the criminal trial, a civil suit brought by the families of Brown and Goldman found him liable for the deaths.
The jury awarded the families $33.5 million in damages after a seven-week trial. However, the families were unable to recover the majority of that amount.
Following Simpson’s acquittal in 1995, Malcolm Lavergne, who manages Simpson’s estate, confirmed to the Daily Mail that he has agreed to pay nearly $58 million to Fred Goldman, Ron’s father.
The lawyer notified the Nevada Probate Court of the intention to disburse the significant payout, which is estimated to reach between $70 million to $80 million with interest, according to Lavergne.
Michaelle Rafferty, legal representative for the Goldman family, stated to the Daily Mail, “the executor’s acceptance of the claim is a positive acknowledgement of the debt.”
Rafferty also mentioned that this acceptance does not equate to an actual payment, as it merely allows the claim’s administration to move forward in the probate process.
“We will continue to monitor the probate process as it progresses,” Rafferty added.
OJ Simpson, who passed away at the age of 76 in April 2024, had been battling cancer during his final years.
In May 2023, he remarked: “So I had to do the whole chemo thing. I’m over the chemo… I’m healthy now. It looks like I beat it – I’m happy about that.”
A statement from the Simpson family confirming his death read: “On April 10th, our father, Orenthal James Simpson, succumbed to his battle with cancer.”
“He was surrounded by his children and grandchildren. During this time of transition, his family asks that you please respect their wishes for privacy and grace.”
Following his death, Kim and Ron Goldman shared their thoughts with MailOnline.
“The news of Ron’s killer passing away is a mixed bag of complicated emotions and reminds us that the journey through grief is not linear,” they expressed.
“For three decades we tirelessly pursued justice for Ron and Nicole, and despite a civil judgment and his confession in [Simpson’s hypothetical memoir] If I Did It, the hope for true accountability has ended.
“We will continue to advocate for the rights of all victims and survivors, ensuring our voices are heard both within and beyond the courtroom. And despite his death, the mission continues; there’s always more to be done.”