Well-Known Lawyer Gets 8 Years in Fiduciary Fraud Involving Millions of Dollars
A well-known South Florida forensic accountant and attorney made a tearful apology in federal court in Miami on Friday before being sentenced to eight years for stealing millions, much of it from the accounts of individuals he oversaw as a court-appointed fiduciary.
Lewis Freeman, 61, received 270 letters of support, and his lawyers painted a picture of a man known for charitable work. They also noted that he had significant expenses for a sick child, home improvements and a bad investment, reports the South Florida Business Journal.
But Judge Paul Huck pointed to government findings that Freeman had spent some $400,00 on travel, clothing and other items.
In a court filing, the lawyers quoted Freeman, reports the Miami Herald: “`Using my education in accounting and law to help others is my greatest accomplishment. Breaking the law is my biggest disgrace.”
Freeman pleaded guilty to a mail fraud conspiracy count in March.
Prosecutors said he took as much as $7 million but replaced all but about $2.6 million.
When he completes his prison term, he must serve another 21 months of house arrest.
Additional coverage:
ABA Journal: “Fall From Grace”
