Embezzlement Scheme Uncovered in Chardon
A shocking case of embezzlement has come to light in Chardon, Ohio, as 64-year-old Donald A. Navastyk, a former licensed attorney, faces tax charges for diverting nearly $161,000 from estates he managed as an executor and administrator. The scheme allegedly took place in the 2008 tax year.
According to the one-count information, Navastyk used his position as a probate lawyer to serve as an executor and administrator of estates established by wills and trusts. He then diverted money from these estates into his personal bank account for his own personal use.
When filing his 2008 tax return, Navastyk failed to claim approximately $160,975 as income, resulting in a tax due and owing of approximately $35,690, according to the information.
The investigation was led by the IRS, with the case being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Robert J. Patton and Suzana Koch. The information is merely a charge and not evidence of guilt, and Navastyk is entitled to a fair trial where the government will have to prove his guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
If convicted, Navastyk’s sentence will be determined by the Court, taking into account factors such as his prior criminal record, role in the offense, and characteristics of the violation. The sentence will not exceed the statutory maximum and will likely be less than the maximum.
The public corruption case highlights the importance of trust and accountability in positions of power. As a licensed attorney, Navastyk was entrusted with managing the estates of others, and his actions have resulted in serious consequences.
The case is a stark reminder of the importance of transparency and oversight in all aspects of life, particularly in positions of trust such as law and finance.
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Key Facts
- State: Ohio
- Category: White Collar Crime
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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