Recently, a California businessman was arrested after he declared bankruptcy
and hid all of his assets during a divorce to avoid paying child support
or alimony. The man was involved in a very contentious divorce with his
ex-spouse. He was sentenced to more than 17 years in prison for his deception
in the matter.
The man was also ordered to pay a $500,000 fine and forfeit assets worth
more than $2.8 million. The prosecutors say that they believe it is the
longest prison term sentenced for bankruptcy fraud in the Sacramento federal
court system.
The bankruptcy fraud came to light after the man called the FBI and asked
the agency to investigate his ex-wife. The couple split back in 1999,
leaving two children. The FBI looked into the issue, but then turned to
investigate the caller, discovering his bankruptcy fraud. In court, the
divorcee admitted that he believed if he could conceal his finances long
enough he wouldn't have to support his to his children.
The man transferred his finances to others, putting it in many people's
names before and after he filed for bankruptcy in 2005. The man then laundered
the funds back to himself using a company owned by his attorney. The man
was convicted of 15 counts of bankruptcy fraud and money laundering last
year alone. His attorney was convicted on one count of conspiring and
one count of attempting to commit money laundering.
If you hid assets during your divorce, you need to speak with an attorney
immediately. This tactic does more harm than good, and could lead to criminal
prosecution. If you have been hiding your divorce assets, call us today
to see if we can help you set things straight. At Claery & Green,
we will provide you with honest legal representation in your divorce from
start to finish. Call today to speak with a divorce attorney in Los Angeles.