In a disturbing case of betrayal and exploitation, Patricia Martin, a former judge and attorney, has come under scrutiny for her management of the finances of Oscar Lawton Wilkerson, a historic figure and Tuskegee Airman. After serving 24 years on the bench, rising to become the chief judge of Cook County’s Juvenile Court, Martin was seen as the ideal guardian for Wilkerson’s financial affairs as he approached his 95th birthday. Known for his contributions as one of America’s first Black military pilots during World War II, Wilkerson’s life story is one of personal sacrifice and resilience amid the challenges of segregation.
However, court records reveal a troubling turn of events. Instead of safeguarding Wilkerson’s finances, Martin allegedly siphoned money from his accounts, amassing over $245,000 and funneling it into bitcoin investments. Eric Puryear, who has known Wilkerson since childhood, expressed deep disappointment at Martin’s actions, highlighting that the familial trust placed in her was tragically misplaced.
The situation escalated in August 2020 when the nursing home housing Wilkerson reported unpaid bills totaling $41,000. Puryear, alarmed by the sudden financial crisis, began to investigate the discrepancies in Wilkerson’s accounts. His findings revealed alarming inconsistencies, such as dishonored checks and inadequate account balances, leading him to conclude that Wilkerson’s substantial savings had been compromised.
Wilkerson, who had planned for a comfortable retirement after decades of service, was now in jeopardy of losing his home at the nursing facility. Puryear’s attempts to reach out to Martin for answers were met with evasion, further aggravating concerns over Wilkerson’s financial well-being. As he struggled to resolve this dire situation, he became increasingly convinced that Martin had indeed stolen the money.
Legal actions were initiated with Puryear filing a lawsuit on behalf of Wilkerson, accusing Martin of theft and demanding restitution. Despite being summoned to court, Martin repeatedly failed to show up for hearings, and even ignored a judge’s order to cease all financial transactions. The court ultimately ruled against her, ordering her to pay nearly $1.2 million in damages, a sum that tripled the amount she had misappropriated.
Martin’s criminal activities culminated in her arrest, where she faced charges that included money laundering and financial exploitation of an elderly person. While she pleaded guilty to one count of felony theft, her sentence of four years probation drew considerable criticism, particularly from Puryear, who argued it was insufficient for the grievous betrayal committed against Wilkerson.
Following Wilkerson’s death, Martin appealed the judgment from the lawsuit, leading to an overturning of the ruling in part due to his passing. His relatives are now preparing to file another lawsuit to recover the funds that Martin took.
As a result of these actions, Martin lost her license to practice law, admitting to misconduct that was clear and convincing. Despite her legal fall from grace, she continues to receive her government pension, a situation that further fuels the outrage felt by Wilkerson’s family and supporters.
Puryear reflects on the contrast between Wilkerson, whom he describes as “one of the finest people” he has ever known, and Martin, whom he characterizes as one of the “absolute worst humans.” The legacy of a hero in American history now stands in stark contrast to the betrayal of trust by someone once seen as a protector.
