A legal battle is unfolding in Oconee County, South Carolina, where a former deputy, Orville “Dale” Colegrove, is accused of mismanaging his late mother’s estate. The dispute involves his sister, Barbra Colegrove Marcum, who is seeking to replace him as the estate’s administrator due to alleged conflicts of interest.

Allegations and Legal Proceedings

Marcum’s motion argues that Dale Colegrove has a conflict of interest as he is both the personal representative of the estate and a defendant in related civil claims. The case has expanded from probate court to civil litigation, with Marcum accusing her brother of breaching fiduciary duties, improperly authorizing their mother’s cremation, and isolating her from family during her final months.

Marcum’s lawsuit, filed in March 2025, claims Dale Colegrove wrongfully used his power of attorney to authorize cremation despite knowing their parents had prepaid burial plots. She also alleges he restricted family access to their mother and administered excessive morphine, contributing to her death.

State Investigation and Court Rulings

The South Carolina State Law Enforcement Division (SLED) investigated the allegations, including concerns about morphine administration and potential smothering. However, the investigation concluded without criminal charges due to insufficient evidence.

In probate court, Marcum’s attempt to become the estate’s personal representative was denied. The court upheld the will’s succession provisions, naming Dale Colegrove as the representative after their father’s death. Marcum’s current motion seeks a special administrator to handle potential claims against Dale Colegrove.

Upcoming Hearing

The case is set for a hearing before S.C. circuit court judge R. Scott Sprouse, where the focus will be on whether an independent administrator should be appointed. This decision could impact the ongoing legal proceedings and the management of the estate.

Original reporting: FITSNews — read the source article.