A suspended attorney, who once worked for a high-profile law firm, formally pled guilty in federal court in Charleston Thursday to defrauding his clients and the firm of at least $1.5 million.
Federal investigators say William Christopher Swett devised a scheme to steal funds from 2018 through 2024. The former personal injury attorney worked at the Motley Rice law firm in Mount Pleasant at the time.
Prosecutors say Swett created legal services companies and billed his law firm and clients for work that was never performed, as well as for inflated and improper expenses, all while concealing his ties with those companies.
What’s more, they say, Swett also sought reimbursements for fictitious clients, fabricated wrongful death and personal injury claims, and falsified medical records and other documents. Prosecutors say he would route the money through accounts he controlled and used the funds for his personal benefit.
The 42-year-old from Johns Island pleaded guilty before Judge Richard Gergel Thursday to four counts of wire fraud and four counts of money laundering. He faces up to 20 years in federal prison, restitution, and a $250,000 fine.
Court documents from February show prosecutors have agreed to accept a lesser sentence in exchange for Swett’s guilty plea. Judge Gergel will sentence him at a later date.
The S.C. Supreme Court suspended Swett’s law license in 2024.
