The man on trial for stealing large amounts of money from two women prosecutors say he was simultaneously engaged to was found guilty Thursday in a Broward courtroom.
Paul Francois was convicted of two counts of grand theft and one count of organized crime.
One of his former fiancées, Rose Marie Anglade, was sure Francois still had her $280,000 to pay back.
“He doesn’t do anything with the money,” Anglade said. “Believe me. The money is there. He hides it somewhere.”
Francois was engaged to Anglade back in 2007 at the same time he was also engaged to Shelia Brisault, according to authorities.
“I think he is a coward,” said Brisault. “He is a criminal. He is a heartless man.”
Prosecutors presented evidence suggesting Francois opened joint bank accounts and convinced both fiancées to deposit about $400,000. Francois also told both women they would purchase a Miramar house together, and then he then stole the money from the accounts.
Francois’ lawyer told the jury during closing arguments today that broken promises made during a love affair don’t constitute a crime, and that a joint bank account means both people are entitled to access it.
Anglade could not be reached for comment on Thursday.
