Chapter 19 - Adrian’s Last Appeal
Adrian’s final significant appeal ended when Elise was eight.
One count was vacated on technical grounds because it merged with another offense.
Sentence reduced modestly.
Core fraud convictions stood.
No retrial.
No hidden financier.
No deeper mastermind.
He remained responsible for his documented actions.
The Sterling Trust closed recovery proceedings.
Final recoveries:
$6.4 million through restitution, settlements, insurance, and asset liquidation.
Unrecoverable net losses:
About $2.3 million plus opportunity costs.
We accepted.
My mother said:
“I want every dollar.”
I replied:
“You won’t get every dollar.”
She sighed.
“I know.”
May you like
That was closure.
Not perfection.
