Brooklyn attorney accused of stealing millions found dead in car in apparent suicide

August 14, 2024 Robert Abruzzese, Courthouse Editor

Salvatore Strazzullo, the attorney once known as the "Night-Life Lawyer" for representing high-profile and scandalous clients, was found dead amid serious fraud allegations and an ongoing multimillion-dollar indictment. Eagle photo by Arthur de Gaeta

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Once a high-profile attorney to the stars, a life marked by notoriety ended in tragedy as he was found dead amid serious fraud allegations and a looming multimillion-dollar indictment.

Salvatore Strazzullo, 52, who gained fame as the “Night-Life Lawyer” for defending celebrities like rapper Foxy Brown and exotic dancer Milana Dravnel, was discovered in his car outside his parents’ Bensonhurst home on Saturday morning. Authorities suspect suicide by carbon monoxide poisoning, though the official cause of death awaits confirmation from the city medical examiner.

Strazzullo’s death comes just months after his indictment on serious criminal charges, including allegations that he defrauded elderly clients out of more than $3.8 million.

The Brooklyn District Attorney’s office accused him of operating a Ponzi scheme through his escrow account, using funds from new clients to pay off older ones while financing a lavish lifestyle that included luxury cars, high-end dining and expensive hotels. In December 2023 and April 2024, Strazzullo faced two separate indictments for grand larceny and fraud, with both cases still pending at the time of his death.

Strazzullo’s legal career was marked by a blend of flamboyant cases and personal controversies. He made headlines for defending clients involved in outlandish legal battles, such as the lawsuit against boxer Oscar de la Hoya over photos of the athlete in lingerie and the so-called “underwear defense” for Foxy Brown.

His career took a dark turn as allegations of misconduct and financial impropriety mounted, culminating in the charges that overshadowed the final months of his life.

Despite his once-celebrated status in New York’s legal and nightlife circles, Strazzullo’s legacy is now clouded by the serious accusations of betraying the trust of his most vulnerable clients. The legal community and those familiar with his work remain shocked by his sudden death and the tragic fall of a lawyer who once thrived in the spotlight.