An attorney from Cherry Hill, New Jersey, accused of stealing over $1 million from a client, has been indicted this week in connection with another theft. The attorney, Michael Kwasnik, diverted close to $325,000 from a couple in Williamstown who settled a personal injury lawsuit using his former firm last year. Kwasnik was previously charged with looting the account of a 96-year-old client from Cherry Hill on November 7.“We are continuing to investigate him,” Attorney General Jeffrey Chiesa said.
After the first indictment was announced, Kwasnik decided to flee the area. He was arrestred only two days later in Alabama at a bus station. Kwasnik is being held on bail well over $1 million at the Camden County jail. After the announcement of the second indictment his bail was raised by $250,000.
Aside from the criminal charges, in November, the state filed a civil suit against Kwasnik, his father, and many others for defrauding close to 73 investors of over $8.5 million by selling unregistered securities.
“The allegations in our criminal and civil actions reveal a disturbing pattern in which Kwasnik has repeatedly violated the trust placed in him as an attorney and has ruthlessly taken advantage of elderly investors and clients,” said Chiesa.
Full Article and Source:
New Jersey Lawyer Charged With Money Laundering
See Also:
NJ Lawyer Indicted for $1m Theft From Client Arrested on the Lam
I do hope the penalty will be severe enough that other lawyers will get the message!
ReplyDeleteI had to laugh, when I read your comment, Thelma, I read it wrong the first time. I thought you said you hoped he'd get the death penalty.
ReplyDeleteOpportunity to take is a true test of character when evil wins over good a pattern of evil takes over. Harsh punishment he deserves time in the slammer sending a message to others to stay on the side of right.
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