Nationwide — Judge Andrea Bradley-Baskin, who is from Detroit, Michigan, has been federally charged for allegedly stealing money from people under conservatorship. She is accused of working with others to divert funds for personal use, including investments and luxury purchases.
The 36th District Court judge faces charges of money laundering, wire fraud, and lying to federal investigators. Prosecutors say she conspired with her father, a guardianship agency owner, and a group home operator to take money meant for vulnerable adults.
Authorities say Bradley-Baskin stole at least $270,000. Some of it was used to invest in a local bar, another portion was taken directly from a victim, and some was paid for an SUV lease. Former U.S. Attorney Matthew Schneider said the paper trail could help recover part of the stolen funds, though some may be lost permanently.
Legal experts say that while such cases are uncommon, they are serious. “These wards that couldn’t fend for themselves, who are essentially disabled, were supposed to be taken care of by these guardians. The allegation is they were abused fiscally and financially,” Schneider said, according to Fox 2 Detroit.
Attorney Mike Morse added that conservatorship funds are often easy targets because oversight is limited. “They can spend it illegally, and usually they don’t get caught. I’m sure this is going on,” he said.
The indictment reveals a broader scheme involving at least three other Detroit residents. Bradley-Baskin’s father, 72-year-old attorney Avery Bradley, along with two associates, is accused of exploiting incapacitated individuals for personal gain. Federal authorities say they are pursuing the case aggressively.