Former Olympian Accused of Squatting in Luxury Manhattan Building

A former Olympian, Erica Terwillegar, who competed for Team USA in the 1988 and 1992 Winter Olympics, is facing accusations of overstaying her lease in a luxury Manhattan apartment building.

Terwillegar and her husband, Peter Molinari, allegedly failed to vacate their $26,000-per-month rental at 150 Charles Street in the West Village when their lease expired in August 2025. The building is known for its A-list residents, including Jon Bon Jovi and Ben Stiller.

The landlords, wellness instructor Cathy Crane and her husband Salvatore Trentalancia, have filed a lawsuit detailing the alleged breach of contract. However, Terwillegar and Molinari deny the claims, asserting that they did renew the lease and have adhered to its terms. Their lawsuit portrays them as victims of unreasonable landlords.

The dispute highlights the complexities of New York City's rental market, particularly in high-end properties. 150 Charles Street is a coveted address, featuring amenities such as a courtyard, a lap pool, and expansive views of the Hudson River.

Terwillegar's athletic career includes participation in two Olympic Games. The building itself offers numerous luxury amenities. The couple's claims suggest a counter-narrative where they are the wronged parties, claiming the apartment is in a state of disrepair and not as pristine as expected for the high rent, comparing its condition unfavorably to Section 8 housing.

The legal battle is ongoing, with both sides presenting conflicting accounts of the lease agreement and the condition of the apartment. The case is being watched as it involves a former Olympian and a dispute within a prominent New York City residential building.