Ex-lawyer admits pilfering secrets from NYC law firm to aid massive insider trading case

Ex-lawyer admits guilt in NYC insider trading case

NEW YORK — A former attorney has pleaded guilty to securities fraud in a massive insider trading case brought against one of America’s richest men.

Brien Santarlas entered the federal plea Thursday in Manhattan. He is cooperating.

The Hoboken, N.J., resident said he gleaned inside information from law firm computers about pending acquisitions and mergers. He said he also eavesdropped on secret conversations and asked unwitting colleagues questions about deals.

Billionnaire Raj Rajaratnam (RAHJ rah-juh-RUHT’-nuhm), one of the country’s richest men, has pleaded not guilty in the case. Authorities say ill-gotten gains totaled $53 million.

Santarlas could face up to 25 years in prison when he’s sentenced in June.