Peter M. Clark, Mail Fraud, Connecticut 2015

A ruthless scheme to defraud the estate of an Oxford woman has come to an end with the guilty plea of Peter M. Clark, a 57-year-old attorney from Woodbury, Connecticut.

On July 2, 2010, Miriam S. Strong of Oxford passed away, leaving behind a will that called for the creation of a scholarship fund for college-bound students from Oxford. Clark, who had drafted the will and served as a witness to its execution, was named as one of the co-executors.

A thorough investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Connecticut State Police – Western District Major Crime Squad revealed that Clark had taken over $1.8 million from Strong’s estate for his own use. The brazen act of theft was uncovered through a federal criminal complaint filed against Clark on May 21, 2015. He was subsequently arrested and released on a $500,000 bond.

The investigation highlighted the shocking extent of Clark’s deceit. As Strong’s attorney, he had a fiduciary duty to act in the best interests of his client’s estate. Instead, he exploited his position to siphon off millions of dollars for his own personal gain.

Clark’s crimes have serious consequences, and he now faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years. In addition to the potential prison sentence, he is also liable for a maximum fine of more than $3.6 million. Furthermore, he has agreed to make restitution in the amount of $1,828,986.87 to the victims of his deceit.

Clark is scheduled to be sentenced by U.S. District Judge Janet Bond Arterton on January 13, 2016. The case has been prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah P. Karwan.

The people of Connecticut deserve to know that their elected officials and professionals are working tirelessly to bring justice to those who abuse their positions of trust. The guilty plea of Peter M. Clark serves as a stark reminder of the importance of accountability and the consequences of engaging in such heinous crimes.

As the people of Connecticut continue to demand justice and accountability, we will remain vigilant in our pursuit of the truth. The Grimy Times will continue to provide in-depth coverage of this case and others like it, shedding light on the dark corners of our society and holding those responsible accountable for their actions.

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