Disgraced former lawyer Tom Girardi was sentenced to over seven years in prison on Tuesday, his 86th birthday, for running a massive Ponzi scheme that swindled nearly $20 million from clients.
Girardi’s sentencing comes after he was found guilty of wire fraud last summer and was accused of siphoning settlement funds from four clients. The court heard that Girardi used the money to fund his lavish lifestyle, including private jets and country clubs.
Judge Josephine Staton said Girardi “wielded his power” against vulnerable victims who suffered catastrophic losses after trusting him for help.
The judge ordered Girardi to pay over $2.3 million in restitution to four victims and fined him an additional amount. Girardi’s estranged wife, actress Erika Jayne, was not charged in connection with the scheme.
Girardi’s lawyer argued that his client suffered from moderate dementia and should be allowed to remain in a senior care home rather than serving time in prison. However, the judge ruled that the federal prison system could accommodate Girardi despite his ailments.
The case marked a dramatic fall for Girardi, who was once one of the most successful lawyers in the country. He is also facing bankruptcy proceedings and has been accused of misappropriating millions of dollars from clients over the course of his four-decade career.
Source: https://www.dailynews.com/2025/06/03/disbarred-attorney-tom-girardi-sentenced-to-7-years-for-20-million-ponzi-scheme