New York City Comptroller William C. Thompson, Jr. today issued the following statement after Bernard Madoff pleaded guilty to directing a massive Ponzi scheme:

Bernie Madoff showed shocking disregard for the security and well-being of many New Yorkers and others around our nation and the world. The list of his victims – from retirees to major non-profit organizations – is a sobering reminder that there are some who would prey remorselessly on those whose only fault is to trust too much. For that reason, he has become a symbol of these troubling times.

Those who have suffered at Madoff’s hands may find some consolation today in knowing that Madoff is being held accountable for his unscrupulous actions.