Man pleads guilty to allegedly embezzling over $2M from dead man

GREENWICH, Conn. (WTNH) — A Greenwich man pleaded guilty Tuesday after allegedly embezzling over $2 million from a client while acting as the executor for his estate after his death in 2020, according to the United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut.

David L. Johnson, 66, pleaded guilty to money laundering and faces a maximum 20 years in prison if convicted.

The Greenwich man was a business owner operating two businesses located in Stamford: Antiques Treasures LLC and Greenwich Auction, according to a Department of Justice press release.

In October 2018, the victim named Johnson as his agent, executor and successor trustee, according the Department of Justice.

“After the victim’s death, Johnson stole more than $436,000 from one of the victim’s federal tax refund checks. The investigation revealed that Johnson stole a total of $2,168,719.24 from the victim and his estate,” the Department of Justice said.

Johnson was arrested last December and has been released on a $250,000 bond.

According to the Department of Justice, Johnson has so far paid $1.1 million in restitution and is scheduled to be sentenced on Oct. 30.

This case remains under investigation by the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation Division.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WTNH.com.