United States v. Wendy Beard

Beginning at least as early as March 9, 2019, and continuing through at least October 14, 2022, in the Eastern District of Michigan, Southern Division, and elsewhere, defendant Wendy Beard (formerly Wendy Halsted), by way of the Halstead Gallery in Birmingham, Michigan, engaged in an ongoing scheme to defraud numerous individuals.  The purpose of the scheme and artifice to defraud was for Beard to convert to her use multiple fine art photographs that had been provided to her on a consignment basis, in order to sell those photographs and keep the proceeds for herself (rather than turning over the proceeds to the consignors). In some instances, Beard also accepted payment for one or more photographs that she never provided to the purchasers.

If you believe you are a victim in this case and are entitled to restitution, review the documents below:

     Probation LT-Victim Wendy Beard
     Declaration of Victim Losses

If you believe you have an ownership interest in any property forfeited in this case, review the documents below:

    Forfeiture Notice of SPOF (Beard)
    Model Claim Form
    Exhibit 1 - Gallery Catalog
    Exhibit 2 - Unidentified Gallery (revised)

If you do not have an ownership interest in any property forfeited in this case, but would like to seek recovery from any funds that may be available after liquidation of forfeited assets, review the documents below:

    Remission Cover Letter with Attachments 
    Petition Remission Form

06/07/24 - Stipulated Preliminary Order of Forfeiture

07/13/23 -  Change of plea hearing. Rule 11

5/25/23 - Information