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In a case that has captured attention due to its complex layers of deceit, prosecutors have accused Ronald Wisner of orchestrating an elaborate scheme to seize control of a deceased individual’s estate. After the victim passed away in a house fire in 2024, Wisner allegedly redirected over a million dollars through various financial channels.
In Seattle, the investigation into this estate fraud spanned several years, unraveling a web of deceit and financial manipulation. The U.S. Marshals apprehended Wisner in Arizona at the end of last week, bringing him back to Washington state where he is now facing multiple criminal charges.
The case revolves around the death of 73-year-old Michael Flegle, who lived a reclusive life. Described by an attorney as somewhat of a hermit, Flegle’s solitary existence made the circumstances surrounding his death and the subsequent handling of his estate even more suspect.
Prosecutors allege Wisner illegally took control of the victim’s estate after his 2024 death and funneled more than a million dollars through financial accounts.
The case began with the death of 73-year-old Michael Flegle, described by an attorney as “somewhat of a hermit” who “kept to himself.”
Flegle died in a housefire in 2024. According to prosecutors, just six days after his death, Ronald Wisner sold Flegle’s car. Court documents state that Wisner told authorities the two were friends.
Authorities said it is unclear how Wisner identified Flegle, though prosecutors suggested one possibility.
“We don’t know for sure how he found Mr. Flegle’s name, but one way he might have would be because Mr. Flegle’s name was published on the medical examiner’s website,” said senior deputy prosecuting attorney Chris Fyall in an April interview.
Central to the case are documents Wisner submitted to gain control of Flegle’s estate. Attorney Karen Bertram, who reviewed the case, said the paperwork contained significant irregularities, including one document that was presented as Flegle’s last will and testament.
“The witnesses who allegedly signed the will were both dead,” Bertram said, noting they died in April 2024. “It was odd that both the witnesses were listed on the King County coroner’s list the same week.”
Bertram also said Wisner failed to submit a required oath affirming he had no felony convictions.
“Mr. Wisner, at that time, had already been convicted of 11 felonies, so under Washington law, he could not serve as the personal representative of an estate,” she said.
Despite these issues, investigators said Wisner took control of the estate, writing checks and moving large sums of money.
A bank investigator flagged the activity as suspicious, and King County Detective Robin Fry tracked the financial transactions.
“This detective followed the money and was able to freeze all of those accounts,” Bertram said.
Ronald Wisner now faces 22 criminal counts, including theft and money laundering. Melissa Wisner, his wife, has been charged with three counts related to the case.