A 54-year-old woman from Ringwood has been arrested and charged for stealing more than $700,000 from the law firm where she worked. The arrest took place on Thursday, Dec. 12. The woman, identified as Colleen Hallenbeck, was employed as a paralegal at a law firm based in Union County. Over six years, between 2018 and 2024, Hallenbeck misused funds from various estates that the law firm was managing, according to Union County Prosecutor William Daniel.
In her role as a paralegal, Hallenbeck was trusted to distribute funds from estate accounts to the beneficiaries, ensuring the rightful heirs received their due portion of the estate. However, Hallenbeck took advantage of her position of trust and authority.
Instead of properly managing the funds, she used her access to write hundreds of unauthorized checks. These checks, which totaled over $700,000, were then deposited into accounts that Hallenbeck controlled or personally owned.
The theft was discovered after the law firm noticed discrepancies in the financial records. An investigation followed, leading to Hallenbeck’s arrest. The charges she now faces are serious, including money laundering, theft, and forgery.
Money laundering charges are filed due to the way she tried to conceal the illegal origins of the funds. Forgery charges are based on the forged signatures she used to authorize the checks. The case is a reminder of the significant trust placed in individuals who handle sensitive financial matters and how betrayal of that trust can lead to serious legal consequences.
Hallenbeck is facing legal action and could face significant penalties if convicted of these crimes. The case also raises questions about the security measures and checks that are in place at law firms and other organizations that handle large sums of money, especially when dealing with estates and beneficiaries.
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Archer Bannister is a journalist with 4 years of experience covering hard-hitting stories. Currently working with Mikeandjonpodcast, Archer specializes in delivering timely and in-depth updates on a variety of topics, including crime news, politics, and national issues affecting the USA. His expertise and dedication to delivering accurate, impactful news make him a trusted voice for audiences seeking to stay informed on critical topics.
