T
errance Dougherty, a 39‑year‑old real‑estate lawyer from Floral Park, pleaded guilty on Monday in Mineola to 13 counts of second‑degree grand larceny and one count of first‑degree scheme to defraud. Prosecutors say he siphoned more than $1.7 million from escrow accounts belonging to 30 clients and spent the money on adult entertainment, luxury hotels and upscale restaurants. The judge will sentence Dougherty between 3½ and 10½ years in prison when he appears on Nov. 6.

    District Attorney Anne T. Donnelly condemned Dougherty’s actions, noting that he “stole millions from his clients and squandered them on extravagant pleasures,” leaving many buyers unable to close on their properties. Dougherty’s attorney, Karen E. Johnston, declined to comment.

    Dougherty operated out of an office on Jericho Turnpike, handling sales and purchases for at least 30 clients from March 2021 to November 2024. He maintained an Attorney Trust Account where client funds were held. Investigators discovered that he withheld sale proceeds and down‑payment money, causing numerous transactions to be canceled or completed without the required funds. By Nov. 29 2024, the account balance had risen to $5.35 million. Dougherty withdrew money through cash, transfers to a business checking account, and credit‑card payments.

    In August 2024, the 10th Judicial District Grievance Committee was notified of Dougherty’s misconduct, and he ceased practicing from his Floral Park office that same month. DA Donnelly emphasized that real‑estate attorneys are entrusted with clients’ hopes and substantial sums, and Dougherty betrayed that trust for personal gain.

    Michael O’Keeffe, an award‑winning journalist and co‑author of “The Card” and “American Icon,” reports on Suffolk County police and other Long Island law‑enforcement agencies.