Great Lakes Wire

Richard Filbey, a 62-year-old resident of Ontonagon, has been sentenced to two years in prison for embezzling funds from an elderly woman while serving as her power of attorney. Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel announced the sentencing. Filbey had previously pled guilty to charges of embezzlement from a vulnerable adult involving $100,000 or more and tax fraud. He agreed to pay over $280,000 in restitution.

Filbey's misconduct began in late 2018 when he assumed the role of power of attorney for the 86-year-old victim. During this period, he persuaded her to cash out two annuities worth $253,194.83 and $27,696.70 respectively and used the money for personal benefit. Additionally, he sold property owned by the victim in Lapeer and retained the proceeds without reporting them on his Michigan tax returns.

Attorney General Nessel commented on the case stating, “Those who betray the trust of vulnerable adults for their own personal gain must be held accountable.” She expressed hope that Filbey’s conviction and sentence would deter similar actions by others.

To facilitate restitution, Filbey transferred three parcels of property back to the victim’s estate. The probate court will oversee the sale and distribution of these properties' proceeds.