I saw this just come across the web on CBS Money Watch. Looks like a Lawyer in Leawood Kansas is looking at doing 3 years for conspiracy to commit wire and mail fraud. After reading a few comment in the article I kind of have to agree with some of the statements. I am usually one for being a little easier on people that have been convicted of a crime, but this seems like a light sentence in my opinion. (and that's coming from a criminal defense lawyer)
Someone pointed out that you get a far worse punishment for armed robbery than this person is going to get for stealing over $50 million dollars. That doesn't seem to make much since to me, but it also doesn't make much sense how you can expunge a armed robbery after five years but you have to wait for 10 years to expunge a simple DUI charge.
Many things don't particularly make since in the law until you look at it from a political stance. No one is in the legislature championing the idea we need to be easier on criminals, but its always a sure fire way to get votes to say lets be tougher on criminals.
Just a little food for thought.
Here is the article.
Kansas Lawyer Sentenced to 3 years for Ponzi Scheme
By AP
KANSAS CITY, Mo. — A Kansas attorney faces three years in prison for his role in a scheme that bilked investors out of about $52 million.
James Scott Brown of Leawood, Kan. pleaded guilty earlier to participating in a conspiracy to commit wire and mail fraud. He was sentenced Tuesday to three years in prison without parole and ordered to pay $34 million in restitution.
The U.S. Attorney's Office in Kansas City says investors loaned about $52.5 million through the scheme known as the British Lending Program. Victims thought they were loaning money for real estate projects, but Brown and two other men kept most of the money.
Martin Sigillito of Webster Groves, Mo., is awaiting sentencing after being convicted of leading the conspiracy. Derek Smith, of Oxfordshire, England, pleaded guilty and awaits sentencing.
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