Lenny "Nails" Dykstra, former Mets and Philadelphia Phillies outfielder, is accused by federal authorities of bankruptcy fraud after he allegedly removed items from his $18 million California home, without trustee consent. He is also facing charges of Grand Theft for allegedly buying vehicles through fraudulent means, according to Fox Business. He was arrested late last week.
Dykstra filed for bankruptcy back in 2009 and is accused of destroying and selling property, without consent from the bankruptcy trustee, that was part of his bankruptcy in California. The former baseball star bought his home from hockey star Wayne Gretzky for $18.5 million.
While bankruptcies can be filed without a lawyer, it is a federal court case and can be much more complicated than many realize. A Modesto bankruptcy lawyer can help make sure you stay on the right side of the law. As importantly, you will be unable to file bankruptcy for years after your case is disposed -- failing to include a creditor in a bankruptcy filing can also be devastating.
Dykstra was held on a $500,000 bail. The items he allegedly sold from his bankruptcy estate included various memorabilia and furniture. He's also accused of ripping out a $50,000 oven and cooktop after he filed for bankruptcy protection, according to the Las Angeles Times.
"The federal charges stem from a bankruptcy case that Dykstra filed on July 7, 2009," the statement said. "The criminal case filed in U.S. District Court alleges that Dykstra removed, destroyed and sold property that was part of the bankruptcy estate without the permission of the bankruptcy trustee.
Accusations are that Dykstra removed, without consent, more than $400,000 from the estate. If convicted of the charges filed by the Department of Justice, Dykstra could do up to five years in a federal prison.
Dealing with a less than reputable attorney or taking on the system alone can often make matters much worse. It is also important to be truthful about your situation, don't try to lie to the courts or falsely file for bankruptcy, which can result in additional legal problems.
Contact a Modesto Bankruptcy Lawyer at the Law Offices of Ben Roberts for a free and confidential consultation to discuss your rights. Call (209) 522-7500.
