Matthew Symons/Coleman-RaynerAriel Winter's mother insists that her older daughter, Shanelle Gray, is the one who has ulterior motives when it comes to the 14-year-old Modern Family star.
In court documents filed yesterday in response to Gray's petition to become Ariel's permanent guardian, their mom, Chrisoula Workman, further denies all claims that she abused Ariel in any way and states that Shanelle is an aspiring actress who is hoping to use her sister "as a stepping stone" to get her foot in the door in Hollywood.
Among Gray's claims in the petition she filed Oct. 3 were that Workman had "sexualized" Ariel and berated the youngster about her weight and appearance.
"Ariel became familiar with the term 'sexualized' from being on set with older castmates and hearing it thrown around frequently," Workman states in denying the allegation. Her "body is constantly changing and growing...She outgrows her clothes, which is what we experienced at one event in particular when the dress did not fit her properly and some people complained about her dress."
Workman also declared in yesterday's filing that her "primary concern with Ariel has always been her health since she has severe allergies." She stated that she herself was diagnosed with breast cancer five years ago and has always tried to ensure that her daughter eats right and stay healthy.
"I love Ariel and I am concerned about her well-being and general welfare, despite industry standards and current trends," she wrote.
Workman further stated that Gray had no relationship with Ariel until recently and had not seen her "more than 14 times" in Ariel's life.
"I have never abused Ariel, and Shanelle's allegations of abuse are clearly fabricated as she has not had a relationship with either of us to know or assess me and Ariel's relationship," her filing reads.
The court documents also include a copy of the police report Workman filed Oct. 6, three days after losing custody of Ariel, in which she accuses 18-year-old Cameron Palatas of engaging in inappropriate sexual conduct with her daughter.
"Ariel is rebelling and using this Guardianship to get out from underneath my guidance and supervision to her sister's care, which would in essence allow her to continue her relationship with Cameron," Workman further contends.
A hearing on Gray's petition is scheduled for Nov. 20, until which Workman has been barred from having any contact with Ariel.
Reps for Ariel, her sister and her boyfriend have not responded to requests for comment.
—Reporting by Baker Machado