Gustavo L. Vila, Theft of Government Funds, New York 2020

Grimy Times has learned that disbarred lawyer Gustavo L. Vila, 62, has pleaded guilty to stealing approximately $1 million from the 9/11 Victim Compensation Fund. The funds were awarded to Victim-1, a 9/11 first responder and retired NYPD officer, who was diagnosed with serious life-threatening medical conditions, including cancer, as a result of his rescue and recovery work at Ground Zero.

The theft occurred between 2012 and 2019, during which time Vila held himself out as an attorney to Victim-1 and the fund, despite being disbarred in 2015. On September 13, 2016, the fund authorized an award of $1,030,622.04 to Victim-1, which was deposited into a bank account controlled by Vila’s law firm on October 12, 2016. Vila, however, did not inform Victim-1 about the deposit and kept 90 percent of the award, $927,559.84, for his own personal benefit.

Vila used the stolen funds to pay his own taxes and, from October 2016 to February 2020, falsely represented to Victim-1 that the fund had not yet released the majority of the award. Vila was arrested on September 3, 2020, and pleaded guilty to one count of theft of government funds, which carries a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison.

The case is a reminder of the importance of protecting the rights of those who have suffered as a result of the 9/11 attacks. Victim-1, who was awarded the funds, was a brave first responder who risked his life to save others. It is unconscionable that Vila would steal from someone who has already been victimized.

Gustavo L. Vila will be sentenced on February 5, 2021. The maximum potential sentence in this case is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes only, as any sentencing of the defendant would be determined by the judge.

The case is a stark reminder of the importance of accountability in our justice system. As a society, we must ensure that those who break the law are held accountable for their actions, particularly when they have committed crimes that harm vulnerable individuals.

In this case, Vila’s actions have caused significant harm to Victim-1, who was already suffering from serious health problems. The theft of these funds will only add to his burden and stress. It is our hope that justice will be served and that Vila will be held accountable for his actions.

Grimy Times will continue to follow this case and provide updates as more information becomes available.

Related Federal Cases