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New York

Sean Ludwick parts ways with lawyer Brafman

BlackHouse developer is in jail following an attempt to flee the country

Benjamin Brafman Sean Ludwick
From left: Benjamin Brafman and Sean Ludwick

BlackHouse Development founder Sean Ludwick, jailed after allegedly attempting to skip bail in his vehicular homicide case, is breaking with his attorney Benjamin Brafman.

The two are apparently parting ways over differences in legal strategy, as well as Ludwick’s erratic behavior.

Brafman — who has represented clients such as Michael Jackson, Sean “Puffy” Combs and former IMF head Dominique Strauss-Kahn – only named practical concerns.

“In view of the fact that Mr. Ludwick is now remanded in Riverhead, it makes much more sense for him to be represented by local counsel,” the high-powered lawyer told the New York Post.

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Authorities arrested Ludwick last week after he unknowingly asked an off-duty, undercover FBI agent in Puerto Rico about buying a boat that could take him to South America for $380,000 in cash, Long Island prosecutors allege.

Suffolk County District Attorney Thomas Spota said Ludwick planned to return to Puerto Rico on January 21 to complete the deal. Ludwick’s $1 million bail was revoked and a judge said he won’t be getting out before trial.

Authorities say they found a list of incriminating Google searches on Ludwick’s phone including “10 secrets to being a good liar;” “Percentage of bail jumpers caught”; “Does Venezuela extradite to the U.S.?”; “Can I leave on a cruise with an arrest warrant?”; “5 countries with no extradition”; “Why do fugitives get caught”; among others.

Ludwick is charged with vehicular homicide, vehicular manslaughter and fleeing the scene of a fatal accident in connection with the August death of Douglas Elliman broker Paul Hansen in Sag Harbor. The developer allegedly struck a utility pole near Hansen’s house, pushed his lifeless body out of the car and drove off. He faces up to three decades in prison if convicted on the 13 criminal charges.

In September, The Real Deal chronicled Ludwick and his various controversies in recent years. [NYP] – Ariel Stulberg

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