Detroit Judge, 3 Others Charged in Federal Guardianship Scheme

Indictment alleges years-long embezzlement of funds from vulnerable wards

Jan. 30, 2026 at 1:39pm

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A 36th District Court judge and three others have been indicted on federal charges for allegedly conspiring to embezzle money from incapacitated individuals under their care as guardians and conservators. The indictment details several instances where the defendants are accused of looting wards' bank accounts, exploiting their legal authority, and profiting off those who relied on them.

Why it matters

This case highlights ongoing concerns about abuse and exploitation within the guardianship system, which is meant to protect vulnerable adults but has faced scrutiny over lack of oversight and potential conflicts of interest. The charges against a sitting judge also raise questions about the integrity of the judicial process in these types of cases.

The details

According to the indictment, Judge Andrea Bradley-Baskin, Nancy Williams, Avery Bradley, and Dwight Rashad are accused of conspiring to commit wire fraud by embezzling funds from incapacitated wards under their care. The scheme allegedly involved using wards' money to purchase personal assets, pay rent on homes the wards did not live in, and cover other expenses unrelated to the wards' wellbeing.

  • The alleged crimes took place over a 'years-long' period, according to officials.
  • The defendants were indicted on January 30, 2026.

The players

Andrea Bradley-Baskin

A 36th District Court judge facing federal charges of conspiracy to commit wire fraud, wire fraud, and money laundering.

Nancy Williams

The owner of Guardian and Associates, a company that provided guardianship services, and is accused of conspiring to embezzle funds.

Avery Bradley

The father of Judge Bradley-Baskin who operated a law firm that represented Guardian and Associates, and is accused of conspiracy to commit wire fraud.

Dwight Rashad

An operator of group homes and residential facilities for elderly individuals, and is accused of conspiring with the other defendants to embezzle funds from wards.

FBI Detroit Field Office

The federal law enforcement agency that investigated the case and brought the charges against the defendants.

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What they’re saying

“Regardless of a person's position in society, no one is above the law. These four defendants allegedly conspired to steal from some of our most vulnerable citizens — looting bank accounts, exploiting legal authority, and profiting off those who relied on them for care and protection.”

— Jennifer Runyan, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Detroit Field Office (WXYZ-TV Channel 7 Detroit)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow the defendants to be released on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights the critical need for stronger oversight and accountability within the guardianship system to protect vulnerable adults from exploitation and abuse, even by those in positions of authority meant to serve and protect them.