Greenwich Antique Dealer Admits to $2 Million Estate Heist
On Tuesday, July 22, David L. Johnson, 66, of Old Greenwich, pleaded guilty in Hartford federal court to embezzling $2.16 million from an elderly victim and his estate. Johnson was the operator of Stamford-based Antique Treasures LLC and Greenwich Auction.
In October 2018, the victim named Johnson as his power of attorney agent, executor, and successor trustee, though Johnson was not named as a beneficiary.
Following the victim’s passing at age 87 in August 2020, Johnson siphoned funds from the estate, including over $436,000 from a federal tax refund, $217,000 from an investment account, and more than $300,000 from artwork sales, among other assets.
Johnson—who remains free on $250,000 bond—has paid approximately $1.1 million in restitution to date. He faces up to 20 years in prison when he is sentenced on October 30.
Between the Lines: Rule number one of estate planning? Pick a trustee you can trust. Rule number two? Definitely don't pick your local antique dealer.