Jodi Montgomery, one of the co-conservators for pop icon Britney Spears, is claiming an increase in harassment and threats after Spears’ emotional court appearance in June.
NBC News is reporting that Montgomery filed papers in Los Angeles County Superior Court on Wednesday claiming having received a “marked increase” of threats of violence and even death.
Spears appeared in court on June 23 in an attempt to wrest control of her life away the conservatorship, controlled by her father, Jamie. In an emotional speech, Spears, 39, told the judge that the conservatorship, which has been in place since 2008, was “abusive" and was doing more harm than good for her life.
According to NBC News, a security detail has been assigned to Montgomery's home since June 30, when a Los Angeles judge signed an order denying Spears' request to have her father removed from the conservatorship.
Citing the increased threats, Montgomery asked for the conservatorship to cover the costs of increased security measures, including 24-hour protection, until she can make "security improvements" at her residence and her office. NBC News reported Montgomery’s security costs $65 an hour, with an estimated cost of $1,820 per 24-hour window.
Spears’ fight for control of her assets and life has wound through the courts and the public eye, with the #FreeBritney movement, led by a vocal group of fans who have mounted a years-long campaign to end the conservatorship.
On Tuesday, Spears' court-appointed attorney resigned from the case, as soon as another lawyer is named to represent her. On Monday, Spears' longtime manager Larry Rudolph wrote a letter announcing his resignation, suggesting the singer was considering retiring from music.
While Montgomery, who was appointed as Spears' temporary conservator in September 2019, said she will not resign.
City News Service contributed to this story.