Two Defendants Indicted in Bankruptcy Fraud Case

United States Attorney Michelle L. Jacobs announced today that a federal grand jury in the Eastern District of Wisconsin returned an indictment charging Willie Kohlheim, Jr. (age: 43) and Pamela Kohlheim (age: 39), both of Milwaukee, with bankruptcy fraud, in violation of Title18, United States Code, Sections 152(1) and 152(3). The four count indictment alleges, in part, that the defendants failed to disclose to the bankruptcy court their interest in, and income from, “R Family Child Care Center.”

As to each count, the defendants, face up to five years’ imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000, and up to three years supervised release. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Gail J. Hoffman.

“The bankruptcy system depends upon the honesty of the participants,” said United States Attorney Jacobs. “This prosecution demonstrates our commitment to protecting the integrity of the process, and sends a message that dishonesty before the bankruptcy courts is unacceptable.” She also commended the actions of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Office of the United States Trustee.

The public is cautioned that an indictment is merely the formal method of returning charges against an individual and does not constitute evidence of his or her guilt. A person is presumed innocent until such time, if ever, as the government establishes his or her guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.