Lawyer Accused of Misappropriating Millions From Cerebral Palsy Victims
Posted by sunce on May 27th, 2009
According to the Manhattan District Attorney’s office, Steven Rondos, a New York attorney who had been appointed to oversee the assets of incapacitated clients, is accused of pocketing $4 million for personal use. His clients included children suffering from Cerebral Palsy.
The 44 year old N.Y. lawyer and his law firm, Raia and Rondos, are charged with grand larceny, money laundering, and scheming to defraud. He apparently defrauded 23 vulnerable clients and the estate of one deceased individual.
Rondos’ contact with his alleged victims started when he was appointed by New York judges to manage the assets of his younger Cerebral Palsy clients who had received generous settlements when it was proven that they were victims of medical malpractice at birth. His other clients were adults and the elderly who suffered from mental and or physical impairments.
The Manhattan D.A’s office contends that Rondos used his unsuspecting client’s money to cover the mortgage payments for his New Jersey home and on extensive home renovations, outdoor landscaping, and installing a home theater.
If convicted, Rondos faces up to 25 years in prison. In addition, prosecutors are suing him and his wife and law firm partner Camille Raia, for asset forfeiture.
Rondos did not answer the phone and did not return messages.
