Manhattan, NY – Bryan McKenna, a Manhattan real estate attorney, was sentenced to up to six years in prison after pleading guilty to stealing $4.4 million that was meant for COVID protective gear. The money was allegedly stolen to fund his romance with his then-CEO girlfriend, Duni Zenaye.
The Crime and Courtroom Tears
McKenna, 62, broke down in tears as he admitted his crime in front of Manhattan Supreme Court Judge Althea Drysdale. “I’m just ashamed of myself. I tried to lead a good life,” McKenna said, wiping away tears. “I did these crimes — I deserve to go to jail,” he added.
How McKenna Stole the Funds
In January 2021, McKenna was entrusted with $4.45 million by Elkay Plastics, a company looking to buy 500,000 boxes of medical-grade latex gloves as personal protective equipment (PPE) during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The money was placed into an escrow account that McKenna managed. However, by April 2021, McKenna had drained the account, allegedly using the funds to support his personal life and romantic relationship with Zenaye, the CEO of AstZen Group, a business consulting firm.
McKenna continued to lie about the whereabouts of the money until November 2021, despite being given the opportunity to return it in summer 2021.
McKenna’s Defense
McKenna’s defense lawyer, Eric Franz, told the court that McKenna was facing financial struggles and was trying to help his son, who was dealing with mental health issues. Franz argued that McKenna’s focus was on getting his son appointments with doctors.
Additional Charges and Sentencing
In addition to the theft of the COVID funds, McKenna also admitted to stealing more than $260,000 from two clients in Manhattan and Brooklyn. He resigned from the New York State Bar Association in 2023. Judge Drysdale sentenced McKenna to between two to six years in prison for his actions.
Statement from the District Attorney
Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg said, “From real estate clients to a company purchasing hard-to-find medical gloves during the pandemic, Bryan McKenna repeatedly drained the accounts of those who looked to him for legal representation.”
