Crime & Safety
Wanted West Long Branch Attorney Surrenders to Authorities
Last held a practice in Eatontown.
A West Long Branch attorney who was has surrendered to authorities.
Eugene M. La Vernge, 47, of West Long Branch, surrendered on Wednesday after he was charged with four criminal offenses.
La Vernge allegedly stole from his clients by dipping into his attorney trust account for personal expenses. La Vernge also accepted a $4,500 retainer for the performance of legal services after he had already been suspended
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La Vernge has been practicing law since 1990 and his last known job was a sole practice in , until his ability to practice law was suspended on Jan. 27, 2011 by the New Jersey Supreme Court.
La Vernge's was lodged in Monmouth County jail in lieu of $85,000 bail with no 10 percent option. His bail was set by Judge Thomas F. Scully in Monmouth County Court, where La Vernge was representing himself.
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The charges of theft and misapplication of entrusted property carry a potential maximum prison sentence of 10 years. The charge of theft relating to accepting the retainer carries a maximum prison sentence of five years and the final charge of unauthorized practice of law carries a maximum prison sentence fo 18 months.
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