A Detroit judge has been indicted on serious charges for allegedly orchestrating a multi-year scheme to embezzle funds from vulnerable and elderly adults under her court's protection. The funds were reportedly used to purchase a local bar and a high-end vehicle, according to federal prosecutors.
Details of the Alleged Fraud Scheme
Andrea Bradley-Baskin, 46, a judge serving on Michigan's 36th District Court, stands accused alongside three other individuals in what authorities describe as a "years long scheme" to systematically divert money from incapacitated adults. The indictment alleges that Bradley-Baskin used laundered money to acquire the now-closed Chick's Bar in Detroit, secure a new Ford Expedition valued at approximately $62,000, and cover her annual rent payments.
The Co-Conspirators and Their Roles
The alleged conspiracy involved Bradley-Baskin's father, Avery Bradley, 72, alongside Nancy Williams, 59, and Dwight Rashad, 69. Williams operates Guardian and Associates, a fiduciary agency responsible for over 1,000 incapacitated individuals, while Rashad owns residential properties that house elderly and incapacitated residents. Bradley-Baskin and her father's law firm represented Guardian and Associates, which allegedly placed vulnerable adults in Rashad's housing facilities in exchange for kickbacks.
Prosecutors claim that Williams misused victims' funds to pay rent to Rashad for properties where the individuals were not residing. The indictment further specifies that Bradley-Baskin allegedly used $70,000 from one ward's income to purchase Chick's Bar and utilised another ward's funds to lease a Ford Expedition SUV for two years.
Substantial Financial Misappropriation
Bradley, Williams, and Rashad are accused of laundering more than $203,000 derived from a legal settlement intended for one victim. US Attorney Jerome F. Gorgon, Jr. condemned the alleged actions, stating, "This state judge and her cronies allegedly abused that high honour for personal gain by preying on the needy protected by the court. This would be a grievous abuse of our public trust."
Prosecutors assert that the four individuals are guilty of "looting bank accounts, exploiting legal authority, and profiting off those who relied on them for care and protection." Karen Wingerd, special agent in charge for the Detroit Field Office, emphasised, "No matter who you are, or what your position is, it is entirely unacceptable to help yourself to money that is not yours."
Legal Charges and Broader Implications
All four defendants face charges of conspiracy to commit wire fraud, with allegations dating back to 2016. Bradley is additionally charged with wire fraud, while he, his daughter, and Rashad have been charged with money laundering. Bradley-Baskin also faces a single count of making a false statement.
The case highlights the critical role of probate courts, which assign guardians or conservators to individuals deemed legally unfit to care for themselves. Those appointed are legally obligated to act in the best interests of their wards, a duty prosecutors argue was egregiously violated in this instance.
Bradley-Baskin assumed her judicial position after previously working as a lawyer alongside her father. The Daily Mail has contacted lawyers representing Bradley and Bradley-Baskin for comment, though it remains unclear whether the other defendants have secured legal counsel.
