Wyckoff Lawyer Charged With Theft

A Wyckoff attorney was charged with theft after he allegedly used thousands of dollars last year for “personal expenses,” authorities said.

William E. Gahwyler, 53, received approximately $15,000 from an attorney that was to be placed into a trust fund for a “landlord and tenant” matter, said Bergen County Prosecutor John L. Molinelli.

Gahwyler allegedly placed the money into his business account and used the money to pay for personal expenses, Molinelli said.

Gahwyler’s license to practice law was suspended in February 2013 for his failing to comply with ethics regulations, but he continued to practice anyway, authorities said.

Gahwyler was charged by members of the prosecutor’s office White Collar Crimes Unit Friday, authorities said. He was charged with theft by deception, misapplication of entrusted property, and unauthorized practice of law.

(Pictured: William E. Gahwyler, 53/Courtesy of the Bergen County Prosecutor’s Office)