According to Us Weekly and the New York’s Daily News, Jessica Simpson’s dad and manager Joe Simpson was spying on Nick Lachey during the couple’s 7-month separation.

In particular, his interest was sparked by a Lachey outing with Minnillo and Jess’ ex-assistant and bff CaCee Cobb at a Vegas nightclub.

“Joe called the club people after hearing Nick was there and demanded to see the security videotape,” an insider revealed.

The club refused to cooperate, as “Joe was looking to incriminate Nick.” When he didn’t get what he wanted, he told the club, “If you ever want to see my daughter there, you’ll give me what I want.”

A rep for the Simpson posse called the story preposterous.