Lawyer suspected in fraud is disbarred
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (AP) – A Florida lawyer suspected of running a $1 billion fraud scheme has been permanently disbarred by the state Supreme Court.
The court acted after 47-year-old attorney Scott Rothstein of Fort Lauderdale requested disbarment. The court’s decision Wednesday notes that Rothstein has already ceased practicing law.
Federal investigators say Rothstein operated a huge Ponzi scheme involving investments in fake legal settlements. Rothstein has not been charged with a crime but investigators have seized his assets, including bank accounts, luxury cars, boats and jewelry. Fifteen Rothstein properties are subject to forfeiture.
Earlier this week, Gov. Charlie Crist removed Rothstein from panel that nominates appeals court judges.