It’s hard to have a lot of sympathy for David Wittig, the former CEO of Westar Energy. Wittig was hauled off to federal prison Tuesday after a judge ruled that he had violated the terms under which he was free while appealing his conviction for bank fraud and looting Westar. In his latest dealings as well as those that led to his convictions, it seems that Wittig simply thinks he is above the law.

Tuesday’s ruling came after Wittig and his wife made numerous financial transactions without the court’s approval. Having transactions approved was a condition of his being free on bond. The Wittigs apparently were transferring as many of their assets as possible into Mrs. Wittig’s name, a move that might place money out of reach of authorities later trying to collect restitution or fines.

Wittig’s attorneys pleaded ignorance, saying they must have misinterpreted the order. The judge said “the court is convinced that this activity was done with knowledge and intent.” That seems like a reasonable conclusion when dealing with someone who apparently thought that no matter what he did, he either wouldn’t get caught or would be able to talk his way out of it.

Some people are better at that than others. Wittig seems to be very good at it, which is why it’s hard to feel bad for him when he finally does get caught and punished.