Detroit Judge and Associates Charged in Embezzlement Scheme

Andrea Bradley-Baskin, a judge on Michigan's 36th District Court, along with three associates, has been federally indicted for allegedly embezzling approximately $273,000 from vulnerable adults under conservatorship. The U.S. Attorney's Office for the Eastern District of Michigan announced the charges against Bradley-Baskin, 46; Nancy Williams, 59; Avery Bradley, 72; and Dwight Rashad, 69, all of Detroit. The indictment includes conspiracy to commit wire fraud, multiple counts of money laundering, and a false statement to federal law enforcement by Bradley-Baskin.

Detroit judge, 3 others charged in alleged scheme to steal thousands from vulnerable and incapacitated peopleDetroit judge, 3 others, accused of embezzling $273K from vulnerable adultsSitting DETROIT JUDGE and Three Others Charged with Scheme to Steal Hundreds of Thousands of Dollars from Vulnerable and Incapacitated WardsMichigan judge charged in scheme to steal from incapacitated adults

The scheme reportedly involved the defendants exploiting their positions to divert funds meant for incapacitated individuals. Prosecutors allege that Bradley-Baskin used $70,000 from a ward's funds to purchase an ownership stake in a local bar and misappropriated funds to lease a Ford Expedition. Additionally, Williams, who owned Guardian and Associates—a fiduciary agency appointed by the Wayne County Probate Court—allegedly paid Rashad rent for wards who did not reside in his group homes.

Sitting DETROIT JUDGE and Three Others Charged with Scheme to Steal Hundreds of Thousands of Dollars from Vulnerable and Incapacitated Wards

Nancy Williams operated Guardian and Associates, which managed over 1,000 cases of incapacitated wards. Avery Bradley, an attorney and father of Bradley-Baskin, co-managed a law firm that frequently represented Guardian and Associates in probate court. Dwight Rashad ran several group homes for elderly individuals, including wards needing care. The indictment outlines how the group allegedly conspired to embezzle funds from legal settlements and other sources, with none of the money benefiting the wards.

Sitting DETROIT JUDGE and Three Others Charged with Scheme to Steal Hundreds of Thousands of Dollars from Vulnerable and Incapacitated WardsDetroit judge, 3 others, accused of embezzling $273K from vulnerable adultsDetroit judge, 3 others charged in alleged scheme to steal thousands from vulnerable and incapacitated peopleMichigan judge charged in scheme to steal from incapacitated adults

U.S. Attorney Jerome Gorgon characterized the actions of the defendants as a "grievous abuse of our public trust," emphasizing that "no one is above the law." Jennifer Runyan, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Detroit Field Office, echoed this sentiment, stating, "If you prey on the vulnerable, we will find you and bring you to justice." The defendants have pleaded not guilty and were released on a $10,000 unsecured bond.

Sitting DETROIT JUDGE and Three Others Charged with Scheme to Steal Hundreds of Thousands of Dollars from Vulnerable and Incapacitated Wards

Legal experts have expressed concern over the potential difficulty in recovering the embezzled funds, as much of the money may have already been spent. Former U.S. Attorney Matthew Schneider noted that the evidence against the defendants appears strong, suggesting a significant paper trail and a list of victims.

Detroit judge charged by Feds in corruption crackdown

The case is currently under investigation by the FBI and the IRS Criminal Investigation Division, with federal prosecutors preparing for trial. The defendants are expected to face serious legal consequences if found guilty, as the charges carry substantial penalties.

Sitting DETROIT JUDGE and Three Others Charged with Scheme to Steal Hundreds of Thousands of Dollars from Vulnerable and Incapacitated Wards

• “We respect the authority that covers a black robe. This state judge and her cronies allegedly abused that high honor for personal gain by preying on the needy protected by the court. This would be a grievous abuse of our public trust,” — Jerome Gorgon, U.S. Attorney

Wayne County judge among 4 charged with preying on the vulnerable

• “Regardless of a person’s position in society, no one is above the law.” — Jennifer Runyan, FBI Special Agent in Charge

Wayne County judge among 4 charged with preying on the vulnerable

• “Let me be clear: if you prey on the vulnerable, we will find you and bring you to justice.” — Jennifer Runyan, FBI Special Agent in Charge

Wayne County judge among 4 charged with preying on the vulnerable

This case highlights serious allegations of corruption within the judicial system, raising questions about oversight and accountability for those in positions of trust.

Sitting DETROIT JUDGE and Three Others Charged with Scheme to Steal Hundreds of Thousands of Dollars from Vulnerable and Incapacitated Wards