Author ‘fraudster’ is on the run

A ‘trusted friend’ of Sir Samuel Brittan accused of defrauding the famous author is facing arrest after she failed to attend her latest court hearing. Michelle Braithwaite (corr), 46, allegedly transferred cash from the writer’s bank accounts without his consent. Braithwaite is also accused of using Sir Samuel’s American Express credit card to pay for goods and services. She was due to appear at Southwark Crown Court today (weds) but her barrister Hector MacLean-Watt said: ‘Ms Braithwaite isn’t in attendance…