Embezzlement is a criminal offense that’s common to the business world. These offenses are usually carried out by the slight of one hand, while in other cases large criminal conspiracies have been found to persist.
Federal tasks forces often investigate corporate fraud and embezzlement over a long period of time. If you think you’re under investigation for embezzlement, contact The Law Offices of Tad Nelson & Associates immediately.
Did you know that it’s possible to be accused of embezzlement if you use a company credit card for personal expenses? You can also be criminally charged with embezzlement for taking home office supplies.
Embezzlement Explained
Embezzlement is a sophisticated form of theft. The crime is usually committed by a person that’s charged with the responsibility over another person’s money or property. The perpetrator uses their authority for their own advantage and steals or “embezzles” the money or property for themselves.
If you’re involved with a scheme to embezzle in any way, by intent or ignorance, you can be charged with embezzlement per federal law. Embezzlements are considered white-collar crimes, and usually occur in a business or corporate setting and committed by an employee or executive in the workplace. Listed below are a few circumstances which lead to embezzlement allegations.
- An employee giving customers fake refunds
- Using employer funds to issue checks for personal use
- Submitting checks for fake invoices
- Leaching money from customer payments
- Adding loved ones to payroll
Embezzlement: Criminal Penalties
If you’re convicted of embezzlement, the penalties are commensurate with the value of the scheme. There are other factors that may influence the severity of your penalties like the status or age of the victim. For example, if you’re convicted with embezzling funds from a non-profit charity, harsher penalties will apply than if otherwise.
Typical punishments for convicted embezzlers are listed below.
- Fines from $500 to $10,000 per offense.
- A prison term of 6 months to 5 years per offense.
- Losing your job or being removed from a management position.
Talk with a Federal Defense Attorney Today
Being charged with embezzlement is not only embarrassing, but can be career ending. Federal defense attorneys Tad Nelson & Amber Spurlock can help you. Our legal team will work with you to uncover the facts of the situation, and to formulate an effective defense strategy for your benefit.
Even if you think you’ll be found guilty, you may not be. Legal counsel matters. Having effective legal counsel could mean the difference between having your charges reduced, dismissed, or you serving a lengthy jail sentence. If you need our help, contact our law firm to schedule a confidential consultation by calling 281-280-0100.
