In a twist straight out of a legal drama, former Glendale Heights attorney Leonard DeFranco, 71, has been handed a six-year sentence for defrauding banks using his girlfriend's identity. According to DuPage County State’s Attorney's Office, DeFranco used his ex-partner's personal information to illegally obtain over $82,000 in loans. Judge Mia McPherson delivered the sentence following DeFranco's guilty plea to one count of Identity Theft – More Than $10,000 but Less Than $100,000, a Class 1 Felony.
DeFranco's illegal activities spanned from December 2, 2015, to June 8, 2017, during which he secured multiple loans and even bought a $43,500 Audi A8 with a loan obtained in his victim's name. The scam came to light when the victim ran a credit report and noticed the anomalous loans. She then alerted the authorities, bringing DeFranco's scheme to an end. State’s Attorney Robert Berlin notably said, "White collar financial crimes always leave a paper trail," highlighting the evidence that led to the sentencing. The investigation also revealed that DeFranco had stolen from other victims, accumulating a staggering total of $845,831.58 in theft.
DeFranco, who was charged with multiple felony counts, including Identity Theft, Forgery, Financial Institution Fraud, Continuing a Financial Crimes Enterprise, and Obstruction of Justice, saw his legal career come to a disgraceful conclusion. The Illinois Registration and Disciplinary Commission disbarred him on March 19, 2024, effectively ending his practice of law.
"His scheming and deception brought dishonor to the legal profession and a slap in the face to his former girlfriend, to whom he undoubtedly caused a financial hardship," commented Berlin. DuPage County officials have commended the Elmhurst Police Department, particularly Detective Jeff Kucera, and Assistant State’s Attorneys Ken Tatarelis and Diane Michalak for their roles in resolving this complex case.
