Erie Businessman and Convicted Felon Dies in Florida

Erie businessman Frederick Zurn, probably best known for being sentenced to federal prison for fraud, died in Florida on Friday from an apparent heart attack. Zurn, aged 58, died at a hospital after experiencing chest pains.

Zurn's lawyer, John Mizner, confirmed the death today. Mizner said Zurn, who was sentenced in November to four years and six months, was scheduled to report to a Federal Correctional Institution on Feb. 22. Zurn had been free on bond while waiting to report to prison.

Zurn was sentenced for fraud when he admitted to forging documents and carrying out other deceitful practices in order to get money for leases for copiers that were either not what the customers thought they were getting or were never delivered to customers.

Zurn was accused of defrauding customers and lenders of $2.5 million to $7 million between July 2004 and May 2011. Another employee of his business also pleaded guilty and is awaiting sentencing.

Zurn's lawyer, John Mizner, confirmed the death today. Mizner said Zurn will be buried in Erie.