Michigan Judge and Associates Charged in Alleged Scheme Targeting Incapacitated People

Federal prosecutors say the group conspired to siphon hundreds of thousands of dollars from adults deemed unable to manage their finances.

Jan. 31, 2026 at 8:55am

Federal prosecutors have indicted a sitting Detroit-area judge and three associates, accusing them of orchestrating a long-running scheme to siphon hundreds of thousands of dollars from adults who were legally deemed unable to manage their own finances. The indictment alleges conspiracy to commit wire fraud, money laundering, and in the judge's case, lying to federal investigators.

Why it matters

This case highlights concerns about potential abuse of power and exploitation of vulnerable individuals within the legal system. It raises questions about oversight and accountability measures for guardianship and conservatorship arrangements, which are intended to protect incapacitated adults but can be susceptible to misuse.

The details

According to the indictment, 36th District Court Judge Andrea Bradley-Baskin, along with Nancy Williams, attorney Avery Bradley, and Dwight Rashad, all of Detroit, conspired to defraud incapacitated adults under the judge's supervision. The group is accused of siphoning hundreds of thousands of dollars from these individuals' accounts through fraudulent means.

  • The alleged scheme took place over a long-running period, according to the indictment.

The players

Andrea Bradley-Baskin

A 36th District Court judge in Detroit who is accused of conspiring to defraud incapacitated adults under her supervision.

Nancy Williams

One of the four defendants charged in the alleged scheme.

Avery Bradley

An attorney who is one of the four defendants charged in the alleged scheme.

Dwight Rashad

One of the four defendants charged in the alleged scheme.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

The takeaway

This case underscores the importance of robust oversight and accountability measures in guardianship and conservatorship arrangements, to ensure that vulnerable individuals are protected from exploitation and abuse by those entrusted with their care.