Union City Man Convicted in Major Embezzlement Case
In a stunning turn of events, a Union City man was convicted on Thursday in Oakland County, Michigan, for serious crimes including criminal enterprise, embezzlement, and tax evasion. Aged 67, David White has found himself in quite the predicament after a jury found him guilty of exploiting his role as a co-trustee of a significant estate.
The Trust’s Background
David White took on the role of co-trustee of the John Stirling White Trust in 2014 when his father, John Stirling White, passed away. The trust included several valuable assets, notably the Winery Office Building located in the bustling downtown area of Farmington. This was not a small affair; the trust was meant to benefit several adult children left behind by the deceased.
Unfortunately, things didn’t go as planned. Although John White had set up the trust with the intention of benefiting his children, ongoing litigation meant that none of the assets were distributed as they should have been. In fact, it was David White who continued to wield control over the trust, raising some serious eyebrows.
Legal Troubles Begin
The drama escalated in 2019 when David White found himself in hot water. The probate court decided to remove him as co-trustee due to his failure to comply with court orders related to producing financial accountings. This action was a crucial turning point, leading to an investigation by the Michigan Attorney General’s office.
Attorney General Dana Nessel stepped in, and what her office discovered was distressing. The investigations found that White had embezzled, get this, at least $400,000 from the trust between the years of 2014 and 2019!
A Word from the Attorney General
In a statement, Nessel expressed her deep concern regarding the case. She said, “The hard-earned savings and property of those who have passed must be managed with integrity and respect, not exploited by those entrusted with their care.” Her comments reflect a strong sentiment that resonates with many who expect honesty from those in positions of trust.
Nessel praised the jury’s decision, emphasizing her department’s commitment to holding accountable those who abuse their responsibilities in managing estates. Notably, she affirmed a broader mission: protecting innocent Michiganders from financial exploitation.
What’s Next for David White?
David White isn’t out of the woods yet. He’s scheduled for sentencing on January 23, 2025, in the 6th Circuit Court in Oakland County. The outcome of this case leaves many wondering how the court will penalize someone found guilty of such egregious acts, especially when it concerns the financial wellbeing of families who are already dealing with the passing of a loved one.
This case serves as a powerful reminder of the responsibility that comes with managing trusts and estates. Those in such positions need to remember that with great power comes great responsibility—and sadly, David White’s case illustrates what happens when that trust is broken.
As we await the sentencing, community members are left thinking about the importance of trust and accountability in all aspects of life, especially those that involve money and family legacies.
Author: STAFF HERE NOVI WRITER
The NOVI STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERENovi.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Novi, Oakland County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Motor City Comic Con, Michigan State Fair, and Novi Home and Garden Show. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Novi Chamber of Commerce and Novi Community Foundation, plus leading businesses in automotive, technology, and manufacturing that power the local economy such as Gentherm, Stoneridge, and Daifuku North America. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREDetroitMI.com, HEREGrandRapids.com, HERENorthville.com, and HEREPlymouth.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Michigan's dynamic landscape.
