The Benson family feud continues to spread.
The latest development comes courtesy of Dawn Jones, a granddaughter of Saints owner Tom Benson who takes issue with the strife caused by her aunt and two cousins.
“Unfortunately it is now public knowledge that an ugly conflict is taking place in our family,” Jones said in a statement released to the media. “I have remained silent over the past week in hopes that the conflict would be resolved quickly and quietly once other family members saw the irreparable damage that was being done by their actions. It has become apparent over the last few days that they have no intention of stopping their relentless attacks, so at this time I would like to publicly state my support for my grandfather, Tom Benson. My husband, my children and I all have a great relationship with my grandfather and Gayle. I have recently spent time with them both and communicate with them on a regular basis. I have witnessed nothing that warrants the actions that are currently being taken. I am brokenhearted that other family members have chosen to publicly harass and humiliate the patriarch of our family -- the very person who is responsible for giving them everything they have. During this difficult time I would ask that you pray for the entire family, especially for my grandfather, Tom Benson.”
Last week, Mr. Benson announced a new succession plan for ownership of the Saints and the NBA’s Pelicans, with his wife, Gayle, inheriting the teams. Daughter Renee LeBlance and her children, Ryan LeBlanc and Rita Benson LeBlanc, promptly filed a lawsuit challenging the changes to Mr. Benson’s will.