Union City Man Found Guilty of Embezzling Over $400,000 from Family Trust

Union City Man Convicted in Major Embezzlement Case

In a stunning turn of events, a Union City man was convicted on Thursday in Oakland County, Michigan, for serious crimes including criminal enterprise, embezzlement, and tax evasion. Aged 67, David White has found himself in quite the predicament after a jury found him guilty of exploiting his role as a co-trustee of a significant estate.

The Trust’s Background

David White took on the role of co-trustee of the John Stirling White Trust in 2014 when his father, John Stirling White, passed away. The trust included several valuable assets, notably the Winery Office Building located in the bustling downtown area of Farmington. This was not a small affair; the trust was meant to benefit several adult children left behind by the deceased.

Unfortunately, things didn’t go as planned. Although John White had set up the trust with the intention of benefiting his children, ongoing litigation meant that none of the assets were distributed as they should have been. In fact, it was David White who continued to wield control over the trust, raising some serious eyebrows.

Legal Troubles Begin

The drama escalated in 2019 when David White found himself in hot water. The probate court decided to remove him as co-trustee due to his failure to comply with court orders related to producing financial accountings. This action was a crucial turning point, leading to an investigation by the Michigan Attorney General’s office.

Attorney General Dana Nessel stepped in, and what her office discovered was distressing. The investigations found that White had embezzled, get this, at least $400,000 from the trust between the years of 2014 and 2019!

A Word from the Attorney General

In a statement, Nessel expressed her deep concern regarding the case. She said, “The hard-earned savings and property of those who have passed must be managed with integrity and respect, not exploited by those entrusted with their care.” Her comments reflect a strong sentiment that resonates with many who expect honesty from those in positions of trust.

Nessel praised the jury’s decision, emphasizing her department’s commitment to holding accountable those who abuse their responsibilities in managing estates. Notably, she affirmed a broader mission: protecting innocent Michiganders from financial exploitation.

What’s Next for David White?

David White isn’t out of the woods yet. He’s scheduled for sentencing on January 23, 2025, in the 6th Circuit Court in Oakland County. The outcome of this case leaves many wondering how the court will penalize someone found guilty of such egregious acts, especially when it concerns the financial wellbeing of families who are already dealing with the passing of a loved one.

This case serves as a powerful reminder of the responsibility that comes with managing trusts and estates. Those in such positions need to remember that with great power comes great responsibility—and sadly, David White’s case illustrates what happens when that trust is broken.

As we await the sentencing, community members are left thinking about the importance of trust and accountability in all aspects of life, especially those that involve money and family legacies.