Barbie Agostini and James Kane, who rose to fame after finding a $100,000 safe while magnet fishing, are now embroiled in a legal battle with Barbie’s sister, Kathleen Agostini. Kathleen alleges the couple owes over $15,000 in back rent for their Queens apartment and has refused to vacate despite their lease expiring in October. She began eviction proceedings in January to address their refusal to leave.
Their viral discovery at Flushing Meadows Corona Park has not translated into responsible tenancy, according to Kathleen. She claims the couple’s magnet fishing activities caused significant property damage, including a ceiling collapse due to corrosive chemicals Kane used to clean their finds. Kathleen worries that their public image might help them avoid paying rent or facing eviction.
John Francis, the couple’s attorney, explained that the court instructed Kathleen to repair the property and allowed the couple to remain until the dispute is resolved. He mentioned that Kathleen has rejected rent payments, which has contributed to the ongoing disrepair of the apartment. Kathleen counters that her financial difficulties prevent her from making the necessary repairs.
Kane denies causing the damage and accuses Kathleen of harassment and doxxing them online. The couple’s legal representative stressed that despite their willingness to allow repairs, the property remains in poor condition. Kathleen fears that without court intervention, the couple will continue to stay without paying rent.
This ongoing legal dispute highlights the challenges of landlord-tenant relationships, especially when complicated by family dynamics and public attention. Kathleen hopes the court will resolve the issue by ordering the couple to pay the overdue rent or vacate the property, ensuring justice and property integrity.
