While suspicion continues to swirl around Bernard Madoff's family and close associates ($65 billion kicks up a heck of a lot of dust) their father's arrest apparently shut down communications completely between Madoff and his two sons, Andrew and Mark. And yet, their parting was not without a certain sentimentality, according to The Telegraph:

A few days after confessing to his fraud to them, Madoff sent each of his sons a package containing expensive watches and jewelry. One of the packages alone contained a vintage "Paul Newman" Rolex Daytona, a Piaget and a Cartier tank among a dozen watches. In an enclosed note, Madoff wrote: "Dear Mark + Andy, If you can keep these watches, they are given with my love. If not, give them to someone who might. Love Dad."

Andrew and Mark reportedly informed the authorities about the gifts, which violated their father's asset freeze. The brothers have also cut ties with their mother, Ruth as well although they both claim that she had nothing to do with their father's misdeeds.

One parting gift that the younger Madoffs will amost certainly have to accept is continuted prosecutorial scrutiny. Both are expected to face charges in relation to the investigation of their dad. Bernard Madoff is scheduled to be sentenced later this month on fraud charges. Meanwhile, hope dwindles that the billions Madoff swindled will ever be recovered.

-- MDT

Labels: Andrew Madoff, Bernie Madoff, Mark Madoff