Slade Smiley’s ex Michelle Arroyo is alleging that he and Gretchen Rossi had a “nonexistent” relationship with his son Grayson.
Not only did Arroyo make this claim to TMZ on Sunday, but she also alleged that her ex has owed her $152,000 in child support since 2019.
A source close to the family denied her claims, telling Page Six that “it is really sad that Michelle continues to try and capitalize on this tragedy and defraud the public while continuing to sling mud at a grieving father who just lost a piece of his heart.”
The insider called Smiley “a loving and caring father,” noting, “Gray turned 18 in 2018 ending legal support at that time, despite which fact Slade has always taken care of his son.”
The source went on to allege that Arroyo “interfered” with Smiley trying to see his son “leading up to his very last days” despite his “endless attempts” to meet.
“The list of false accusations goes on and on, but the sheer fact that she would scoop this low to use this tragedy for attention and to swindle good natured people out of money is pathetic and really sad,” the statement concluded.
Page Six has reached out to Smiley and Rossi’s reps for comment.
Grayson died on Feb. 5 at age 22 when his “heart suddenly and unexpectedly gave out” after 29 surgeries and 16 years of treatment and complications.
Family member Becky Arroyo has organized a GoFundMe for Grayson, who was diagnosed with brain cancer in 2006 when he was 6 years old.
Becky asked the public for $75,000 in...
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