Ex-Texas Attorney Gets 10 years for Theft to Support Gambling Addiction

NEW BOSTON, Texas (Associated Press) — A former lawyer in Texas and Arkansas who allegedly had a gambling problem must serve 10 years in prison for stealing nearly $250,000 from clients.

The Texarkana Gazette reports 65-year-old Don Cooksey was taken into custody Tuesday following sentencing in New Boston.

Cooksey last week pleaded guilty or no contest to more than 30 felonies including theft, misapplication of fiduciary property and forgery. His various prison sentences — ranging from 10 years to two years — will be served concurrently. The Texarkana lawyer was also fined $60,000.

Defense attorney Will Williams says Cooksey's crimes were financial and driven by a gambling addiction.

Cooksey in 2009 surrendered his licenses to practice in Texas and Arkansas.