Lexington attorney arrested for allegedly embezzling $2.5 million from companies
boston.com — January 16, 2025, 06:01 AM UTC
David Smerling, a 74-year-old attorney from Lexington, was arrested for allegedly embezzling over $2.5 million from three Massachusetts companies. He faces a wire fraud charge but did not enter a plea during his court appearance. Smerling reportedly transferred funds from the companies to his own accounts between January 2016 and May 2020. He claimed to have an "addiction to prostitutes" and used various methods to conceal his actions, including redirecting bank statements to his home. He was released on conditions that include participating in mental health treatment. If convicted, Smerling could face up to 20 years in prison. His next court date is set for February 5.