Defense lawyer asks to leave Bravata fraud case

DETROIT (AP) -- A Detroit-area money manager accused of fraud may be parting ways with his court-appointed lawyer. Attorney Austin Hirschhorn has told a federal judge there's a breakdown in his relationship with John Bravata. The judge will hold a hearing Friday on Hirschhorn's request to leave the case. Bravata is charged with conspiracy to commit fraud. Authorities say he collected $53 million from investors. He insists he legitimately invested the money in real estate and denies any fraud. Bravata was arrested in May after returning to the U.S. from Italy. Authorities say he was exploring whether he could avoid extradition if indicted while in Italy. Bravata remains in custody. Published: Thu, Sep 15, 2011