Los Angeles, California – Tom Girardi, a once-prominent lawyer, has been found guilty of four counts of fraud, marking a significant downfall for the former legal titan. The 85-year-old attorney, renowned for securing a $333 million settlement in the 1996 Pacific Gas & Electric case that inspired the film "Erin Brockovich," was convicted of embezzling millions of dollars from his clients over more than a decade.
The verdict, delivered on Tuesday, concludes a trial that exposed Girardi’s fraudulent activities from October 2010 to the end of 2020. Prosecutors revealed that Girardi embezzled at least $15 million from clients, many of whom were vulnerable due to serious injuries or the loss of loved ones. The funds were diverted to support Girardi’s lavish lifestyle, which included private jets, expensive jewelry, and a grand estate in Pasadena.
One of the most shocking revelations was that some of Girardi’s victims were families of those who died in the 2018 Lion Air Flight JT 610 disaster. The tragic crash claimed 189 lives, underscoring the extent of Girardi’s deception.
Despite his public image as a champion of justice, U.S. Attorney Martin Estrada condemned Girardi’s actions, stating, “Tom Girardi created a celebrity status and deceived victims by falsely portraying himself as a ‘champion of justice.’ In reality, he was the opposite of Robin Hood, stealing from the poor to support a lavish, Hollywood lifestyle.”
Girardi’s defense argued that his cognitive impairments, including dementia and late-onset Alzheimer’s disease, made it impossible for him to oversee his firm’s operations effectively. However, federal prosecutors maintained that Girardi’s actions were intentional, aiming to portray himself as a defender of the helpless while leaving his clients without the settlements they were promised.
Girardi now faces up to 80 years in prison, with sentencing scheduled for December 6. Although his age and health issues might be considered, the likelihood of prison time remains strong.
The news of Girardi’s conviction has sparked reactions on social media. Marshall Lawless commented, "He should’ve become a politician; then he’d be immune to prosecution for embezzling millions of dollars like the rest of them." Meanwhile, Bryan Krysher added, "Thought that was felon Trump, for a sec."
Tom Girardi’s story is a cautionary tale of the dangers of greed and deceit in the legal profession. Once celebrated for his victories in court, Girardi’s legacy is now marred by scandal and betrayal.