Union City Man Sentenced for Family Trust Embezzlement

News Summary

David White, a 68-year-old resident of Union City, Michigan, has been sentenced to four to 20 years in prison for embezzling over $400,000 from a family trust. Following a jury’s verdict, White’s actions have raised concerns about financial integrity within family trusts. This case highlights the importance of vigilance in the management of deceased individuals’ estates, which have seen an increase in embezzlement cases. A restitution hearing is scheduled for May 2025 to discuss the financial implications for the family.

Union City Man Sentenced for Embezzling From Family Trust

In a startling turn of events that has shocked the residents of Union City, Michigan, 68-year-old David White has been sentenced to serve four to 20 years in prison after being convicted of serious charges connected to the embezzlement of over $400,000 from a family trust. This sentencing was recently announced following a verdict reached by a jury in November 2024, which has left many in the community pondering the complexities of family trusts and financial integrity.

The Charges Against White

White faced a slew of charges, which included conducting a criminal enterprise, as well as multiple counts of embezzlement by an agent/trustee—specifically one count involving more than $50,000 but less than $100,000, alongside another involving sums between $1,000 and $20,000. On top of these serious embezzlement charges, White was also found guilty of failure to file taxes on six counts.

Trustee’s Duties and Misconduct

White’s troubles began back in 2014 when he became a co-trustee of the John Stirling White Trust, following the death of his father. This new role placed him in control of the trust’s income, expenses, and financial records. However, despite having several adult siblings, the assets of the trust were never distributed due to ongoing litigation. Instead, White reportedly took matters into his own hands in the worst way possible.

By 2019, it became clear that things were amiss. White was removed as co-trustee by the probate court due to his failure to comply with court orders requiring him to provide proper financial accountings. The investigation that followed revealed the shocking truth: White had allegedly embezzled a staggering $400,000 from the trust during his five years as co-trustee.

A Family’s Concern Leads to Legal Action

The story took a pivotal turn when a concerned family member brought the case to the attention of the Michigan Attorney General’s office during an Elder Abuse Listening Tour. This proactive step allowed investigators to delve deeper into the financial misconduct, ultimately leading to the charges against David White.

Implications of the Case

The sentencing of David White is part of a larger concern for many in Michigan, where embezzlement cases involving vulnerable adults and family trusts have been on the rise. Such cases often highlight the critical need for vigilance in the management of estates belonging to deceased individuals.

The Michigan Attorney General’s office has emphasized the importance of respecting and protecting the assets of families, especially during their most vulnerable times. Their commitment to pursuing justice in these sensitive cases serves as a reminder that those found exploiting such situations will face accountability.

What’s Next for White?

Following his sentencing, a restitution hearing has been scheduled for May 9, 2025, during which the details surrounding the financial repercussions for the family and the outcomes of his embezzlement will be discussed. As many in the community reflect on the events that have unfolded, it serves as a grim but powerful reminder that ethical management of family trusts is not just a moral obligation, but a legal one as well.

As the dust settles from this case, the citizens of Union City and beyond remain watchful, knowing that stories like David White’s remind us all of the potential dangers that lurk when trust is misplaced.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

• The Daily Reporter
• Credit Union Times
• CBS News Detroit
• Wikipedia: Embezzlement
• Encyclopedia Britannica: White-Collar Crime