We normally don’t write stories about corrupt cops. But when the cop is a lead investigator in the Israeli Tax Authority and the Israeli Police, we take notice. When we learn that he allegedly targeted the victims of cases he was assigned, we really take notice. The Times of Israel reported earlier this summer that Michael Shushan was charged with numerous crimes including theft, fraud and forgery.
Prosecutors say he used the information gained during his investigations to learn which victims were wealthy and likely to have other assets. It’s bad enough these poor folks were victimized once; Shushan apparently decided that he would gather up any crumbs missed by the first set of thieves.
In one instance, Shushan discovered that one of the victims kept cash in his home. Officer Shushan became burglar Shushan and allegedly broke into the man’s home stealing cash, jewelry and computers.
At some point, the Israeli Tax Authority began to become suspicious because of “irregularities” in Shushan’s behavior. He was placed on administrative leave during the investigation. Did that stop his one man crime wave?
I think you already know the answer. According to the indictment, while suspended, Shushan presented himself as a government tax auditor and “audited” currency exchange companies. During those “audits” he allegedly stole more cash.
Prosecutors asked the court to hold Shushan without bail.
Unfortunately, these rare incidents happen in the U.S. as well. Each year, at least one IRS employee gets indicted for stealing refunds or some other type of fraud.
Stories like this are depressing. Deceit and fraud knows no boundaries. Israeli tax cops, IRS agents and lawyers and accountants can occasionally also be thieves. Unfortunately, when an accountant or lawyer steals, traditional legal malpractice insurance policies won’t cover the loss. Malpractice insurance is designed to insure against mistakes, not theft.
Usually when we write fraud stories we try to provide some general guidance on how to avoid falling prey to similar schemes. This one is very tough, however. How can you prevent becoming a victim of fraud and burglary if the person committing the offense is a cop. There are no easy answers.
Our law firm represents victims of both fraud and malpractice. Hopefully you never need the services of a fraud recovery lawyer, but if you, we are ready to help. Fraud recovery services can often be handled on a success fee (contingent fee basis). If you lost your hard earned money, give us a call.
Need more information? We are happy to help and are initial consultations are without cost. All inquiries are protected by the attorney – client privilege too. For more information, contact the author at (414) 704-6731 or by email at brian@mahanyertl.com.
Post by Brian Mahany, Esq.
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