Rumer Willis’ former partner, Derek Richard Thomas, is making new claims in their ongoing custody dispute over their 3-year-old daughter, Louetta.
In a declaration filed in Los Angeles Superior Court on Aug. 27, Thomas alleged that Willis has deliberately interfered with his relationship with their daughter and has made it difficult for him to exercise court-ordered parenting time. The allegations are part of an ongoing legal dispute, and Willis has previously made allegations against Thomas that he has denied.
Derek Richard Thomas Denies Drug Abuse Claims
Thomas also addressed previous allegations made by Willis concerning his alleged drug use.
In earlier court documents, Willis had claimed that Thomas had been under the influence of marijuana while caring for Louetta. Thomas has denied those allegations and maintains that he has never endangered his daughter or failed in his responsibilities as a parent.
Thomas Accuses Willis of Blocking Visitation
According to his latest declaration, Thomas claims Willis has repeatedly frustrated his attempts to spend time with Louetta.
He alleges that some scheduled visits were disrupted and claims that, during one incident, police became involved and Louetta was removed from the visit earlier than expected. Thomas argues that these actions have made it harder for him to maintain a relationship with his daughter.
Thomas is opposing Willis’ request to modify the existing custody arrangement and is asking the court to maintain the visitation structure previously established.
Rumer Willis Has Primary Physical Custody
The custody dispute has been ongoing for months.
In June, Willis was awarded primary physical custody of Louetta, while she and Thomas were granted joint legal custody. The court also established a visitation schedule for Thomas that initially included monitored visits before transitioning to overnight parenting time. Both parents were ordered to participate in co-parenting counseling and undergo a custody evaluation.
Willis Previously Made Abuse Allegations
Willis previously accused Thomas of emotional abuse and other concerning behavior during their relationship and as a parent.
Thomas has denied the allegations and has continued to argue that he is a loving and devoted father. The competing claims are now being addressed through the court system rather than being resolved publicly.
