Ex-Lawyer Who Concocted ‘Kidnap’ Pleads in $624K Client Theft Case

A former Ohio lawyer who voluntarily resigned from the state bar earlier this year has pleaded guilty to aggravated theft in connection with admittedly stealing $624,000 from her former clients over a period of six years.

Karyn McConnell Hancock, 38, admitted her guilt today in Lucas County Common Pleas Court and could face a prison term of as much as eight years when she is sentenced next month, reports the Toledo Blade. She made international headlines late last year when, apparently trying to find a way out of the situation, she falsely claimed to have been kidnapped

"The prosecutor’s office has identified 23 victims, including several who have since filed civil lawsuits against her," the newspaper recounts. "At least 12 victims have been identified as McConnell Hancock’s clients in Lucas County Probate Court where she stole nearly $335,000 from estates she represented."

Earlier ABAJournal.com coverage:

Ohio Lawyer Gets Probation for Faking Kidnapping

Pregnant Lawyer 'Resigns' From Law Practice

Pregnant Lawyer Pleads to Faking Abduction; May Face More Charges