Lisa Ludy faces prison time and restitution after exploiting her position as a guardian.
Guardian Convicted on 18 Felony Counts
Judge Julie Gatti of the 16th Judicial Circuit Court handed down the sentence, which includes concurrent prison terms ranging from one year to 20 years. Ludy is also required to pay $187,827.96 in restitution to the victims, with $17,000 paid prior to her sentencing.
“This sentence secures not only prison time but substantial restitution for the vulnerable adults who were exploited by the guardian and conservator they entrusted with their finances,” said Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel.
Exploitation of Trust and Misuse of Authority
In 2016, Ludy petitioned for her company, Community Guardian Care, Inc., to be appointed as a guardian and conservator for one of her victims. Once appointed, Ludy used her authority to steal over $100,000 from the victim’s finances. She funneled the stolen funds into her family’s companies, including Career Health Studies, Career Health Training Corporation, and Applewood Adult Foster Care Home.
Ludy also concealed her theft by failing to file income taxes between 2016 and 2019, further compounding her financial misconduct.
Second Victim Reports Additional Theft
After Ludy’s initial charges in 2022, a second victim came forward, alleging that she had refused to return his money. Ludy used the victim’s Social Security income and debit card to make unauthorized purchases and withdrawals from his bank account, despite no longer being his guardian.
To obstruct the victim’s efforts to press charges, Ludy attempted to intimidate him and interfere with his ability to testify in court.
Sentencing Details
Ludy’s prison sentence includes:
- 3 to 20 years for two counts of Conducting a Criminal Enterprise.
- 3 to 15 years for one count of Embezzlement of $50,000 to $100,000.
- 3 to 10 years for one count of Embezzlement of $20,000 to $50,000.
- 1 year each for multiple counts of financial theft, including Embezzlement from a Vulnerable Adult and Failure to File Tax Return.
All sentences will run concurrently.
Nessel Pledges Continued Advocacy
Attorney General Nessel highlighted the importance of this case in protecting vulnerable populations from exploitation.
“My office remains committed to seeking justice for some of our state’s most vulnerable and providing pathways for them to recoup their stolen funds,” Nessel said.
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