Islip attorney allegedly stole from Bellmorite

A Suffolk County attorney reportedly withdrew more than $185,000 in personal injury settlement funds awarded to her client from Bellmore, according law enforcement officials. They alleged that she used the money to carry on her Jericho law practice and for various personal expenditures.

Acting Nassau County District Attorney Madeline Singas said that Nancy Enoksen, 46, of Islip was arrested on March 27 by investigators. She was charged with second-degree grand larceny and conditionally released to probation.

Singas said that in November 2008, a Bellmore woman retained Enoksen, who practices law from an office on North Broadway in Jericho, to represent her in various personal matters. Enoksen acted as her attorney until November 2013.

During the course of Enoksen’s representation, the woman settled a personal injury lawsuit (in which she was represented by another attorney) for more $400,000. Singas said Enoksen placed the funds into an escrow account.

Between Aug. 19, 2013 and April 30, 2014, Enoksen allegedly withdrew more than $185,000, without the permission or knowledge of her client. Singas explained that she used the funds for her own benefit.

“Anyone who retains an attorney’s services has the right to honest and ethical representation, and no client should have to worry about an attorney profiting from a privileged position for financial gain,” Singas said. “My office has a strong history of prosecuting professional corruption and, as evidenced by today’s arrest, will continue to hold accountable those who violate their fiduciary duties or otherwise abuse their positions of trust.”

If convicted, Enoksen faces up to five to 15 years in prison. The charges are merely accusations, and Enoksen is presumed innocent until and unless found guilty.

Assistant District Attorney Mary Ruddy of the Government and Consumer Frauds Bureau is prosecuting the case. Enoksen is represented by Michael Alber, Esq., who was unavailable for comment as of press time Tuesday afternoon.