Redford Man Suspected of Embezzling Thousands From Grandfather’s Funds, Faces Felony Charge

A 33-year-old man from Redford, Darius Nance, faces a criminal charge of embezzlement after allegedly taking thousands from his grandfather after his admission into a nursing home. Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel’s office disclosed the charges, reporting that Nance could face a sentence of up to five years and/or a hefty fine if convicted. The charge specifically implies embezzling funds from a vulnerable adult, as reported by The Detroit News.

Nance was entrusted with the guardianship of his elderly relative by the Oakland County Probate Court on February 22, 2023. It did not take long for allegations to surface that he failed to use his position to adequately provide for his grandfather’s care. Instead, Nessel’s office contends, Nance opted to wrongfully enrich himself, systematically writing checks for “his own personal business dealings,” as opposed to meeting the needs of his kin, as per details provided by Audacy.

The alleged financial abuse came to light following an investigation by the AG’s Health Care Fraud Division. The embezzled sums are reported to range between $1,000 to under $20,000. Court documents obtained by ClickOnDetroit indicate that Nance has not made any payments to the nursing facility since his appointment of ella as guardian.

Defense attorney Brian Fenech, who represented Nance during the arraignment, was appointed for the arraignment only and had no additional comments, as mentioned in a statement obtained by The Detroit News. Nance is expected to soon appear in the 48th District Court for a probable cause conference scheduled for September 3. The preliminary examination is set to be held on September 9, where more details about the case are anticipated to unfold. Dana Nessel reasserted her office’s commitment to prosecuting those who exploit their guardianship status, stating in her press release that “My office will continue to hold accountable those who use guardianships to unlawfully enrich themselves.”