Great Lakes Wire

Richard Filbey, 62, of Ontonagon, pled guilty yesterday to one count of Embezzlement from a Vulnerable Adult of $100,000 or More and one count of Tax Fraud. The charges stem from his actions while serving as power of attorney for an elderly woman. Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel announced that Filbey has agreed to pay more than $280,000 in restitution as part of the plea deal.

In late 2018, Filbey began acting as power of attorney for the 86-year-old victim. During this period, he convinced her to surrender two annuities—one valued at $253,194.83 and another at $27,696.70—and used all the funds for his personal gain. Additionally, Filbey sold property owned by the victim in Lapeer and kept the proceeds for himself. None of these funds were reported 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 stated. “This conviction ensures the victim in this case and her family will receive just restitution while holding Mr. Filbey accountable for his actions.”

Before entering his plea, Filbey transferred three parcels of property back to the victim’s estate. The probate court will now oversee the sale and distribution of these properties' proceeds towards restitution.

Sentencing is scheduled for October 30, 2024, before Judge Kathryn A. Viviano in the 16th Circuit Court in Macomb County.