Brooke Astor’s Son Indicted on Criminal Charges

Anthony D. Marshall, the only child of the late philanthropist Brooke Astor, and one of Mrs. Astor’s former lawyers have been indicted on charges of stealing from her $198-million estate, reports the Associated Press.

Mr. Marshall, 83, and one of his mother’s former lawyers, Francis X. Morrissey Jr., were indicted today on charges of grand larceny, criminal possession of stolen property, forgery, scheme to defraud, falsifying business records, offering a false instrument for filing, and conspiracy. Grand larceny by itself can draw a sentence of up to 25 years in prison.

Mrs. Astor died in August at age 105. In her lifetime, she gave more than $200-million to charitable causes.

Mr. Marshall, a former diplomat and a theatrical producer, has denied all allegations, the wire service reported. A lawyer for Mr. Morrissey told The New York Times that his client also has denied any wrongdoing.

Mrs. Astor’s bequest is expected to make her one of America’s most-generous donors this year, according to The Chronicle’s latest tally.

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