LANSING, Mich. – Monday, Richard Filbey, 62, of Ontonagon, pled guilty to one count of Embezzlement from a Vulnerable Adult of $100,000 or More and one count of Tax Fraud for embezzling funds from an elderly woman while acting as her power of attorney, announced Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel. As part of the plea, Filbey agreed to more than $280,000 in restitution.
In late 2018, Filbey began acting as power of attorney for the 86-year-old victim. During that time, Filbey caused her to surrender two of her annuities – one for $253,194.83 and one for $27,696.70 – and used all the funds for his own enrichment. Filbey also sold property the victim owned in Lapeer and used the proceeds for himself. None of the funds were reported by Filbey as income on his Michigan tax returns.
“Vulnerable adults deserve to feel secure when entrusting their finances to an agent and not be preyed upon by those tasked with safeguarding their assets,” Nessel said. “This conviction ensures the victim in this case and her family will receive just restitution while holding Mr. Filbey accountable for his actions.”
Prior to today’s plea, Filbey transferred three parcels of property to the victim’s estate. The sale of those properties and distribution of the proceeds will now be overseen by the probate court to go towards restitution.
Sentencing will take place on October 30, 2024, before Judge Kathryn A. Viviano in the 16th Circuit Court in Macomb County.
