The Victorian County Court has today sentenced Athena Razos to 5 years 3 months’ imprisonment after stealing over $1.56 million from a Melbourne law firm.
Razos’ sentencing comes after the 59-year-old pleaded guilty in November 2022 to 16 charges of obtaining financial advantage by deception, and obtaining property by deception.
The disqualified paralegal embezzled from a Melbourne legal firm between 2013 and 2017, exploiting her position and knowledge of their accounting processes to carry out over 100 transactions for her own benefit.
The money went towards the construction of a new house in Box Hill South on land she had previously bought for about $1 million.
While carrying out these offences, Ms Razos had prior convictions for theft and fraud, including
theft from a law practice where she used to work.
Razos’ offending was uncovered in late 2017 and the Victorian Legal Services Board found she was not a fit and proper person to work in the profession in 2020.
Razos’ sentencing today comes after a mention hearing in the County Court in February 2023 and a further plea hearing.
READ MORE: Dementia patient faces eviction amid dispute with Melbourne conwoman Athena Razos
