Sullivan also asked about “friction” between Valade and her son, Mark Valade, a central theme in Sullivan’s opening statement. Mark Valade testified that he never tried to control his mother’s spending. He expressed concern over Sutherland’s role as trustee and his mother’s close friend and romantic partner, Tom Robinson, who was set to receive millions as a beneficiary of the 2009 trust.
Sutherland’s testimony is expected to continue Thursday.
The state of Michigan is represented by Scott Teter and Daniel Gunderson of the Michigan Attorney General’s Office. Sutherland is represented by James Joseph Sullivan.
The case is State of Michigan v. David P. Sutherland, case number 23-002905-01-FH, in Michigan.
