Timothy Mellon, a prominent figure known for substantial financial contributions to former President Trump, is currently embroiled in a legal dispute with a Connecticut Subaru dealership over a relatively small sum: $22,000. This case highlights an interesting contrast between Mellon’s high-profile political giving and his approach to managing everyday expenses.
Mellon’s Background and Previous Donations
Mellon is heir to the Mellon Bank fortune. Notably, The New York Times reported that he reportedly directed approximately $130 million to the Trump administration to help pay military personnel during the 2018-2019 government shutdown. He also allegedly contributed millions to Trump’s campaign leading up to the 2020 election. His current legal battle involves disputes regarding three vehicles and associated expenses at Reynolds’ Subaru in Lyme, Connecticut.
Disputes Over Three Vehicles
The lawsuit details several issues related to Mellon’s classic car collection:
- 1995 Jeep Grand Cherokee: Mellon brought his Jeep to Reynolds’ Subaru in 2023 due to an unusual ticking noise emanating from the engine. The dealership recommended replacing the engine with a Dodge truck motor as an equivalent solution, which Mellon authorized. However, the repair resulted in major oil leaks and left the vehicle deemed unsafe. Despite paying $7,300, Mellon requested the dealership rebuild the original engine and reinstall it.
- 1984 VW Rabbit: Mellon claims to have purchased the Rabbit from an individual he believed was a dealership employee for $5,000. He later discovered that the seller did not possess the title, preventing registration in Wyoming where he resides. Reynolds’ Subaru subsequently billed Mellon $6,625 in storage fees, which the dealership insists represents abandoned property.
- 1982 VW Pickup: According to Mellon’s complaint, brake work performed by the dealership left the truck unsafe for operation.
Dealership’s Response and Legal Proceedings
Reynolds’ Subaru denies any fault in all three cases. Court documents show that Mellon, who maintains property in Lyme but lists Wyoming as his primary residence for political filings, is no stranger to civil litigation.
Previous Legal Battles
In 2015, Mellon unsuccessfully sued a historical aircraft organization concerning an Amelia Earhart expedition, losing both at trial and on appeal.
Current Status
The current dispute is progressing, with a pretrial conference scheduled for November 6 and jury selection set for December 9 in New London. This case presents a curious juxtaposition of a major political donor, known for large-scale contributions, finding himself in court over comparatively modest financial disagreements. It raises questions about the level of attention and care individuals, regardless of their wealth, dedicate to everyday transactions. >While Mellon’s philanthropy and political backing are widely known, this legal battle reveals a more granular side of managing financial dealings and disputes. The outcome of this case may offer insights into the complexities of car repairs, vehicle ownership, and the potential for disagreements even between wealthy individuals and local businesses
