Embezzlement involves a person who is entrusted by an individual or business to oversee money or other assets and instead transfers those items to themselves. An arrest and charges may result from a one-time occurrence or involve the State asserting there were years of embezzling small amounts of money over a period of time.
Facing embezzlement charges is serious, and a conviction could have severe consequences on your life and future including problems finding new employment, housing, or anything that requires a background check. At Groth & Associates, our experienced theft defense attorneys can help you fight back against these harmful allegations and the harsh penalties that could follow a conviction. Contact a Toledo embezzlement lawyer from our firm today to get started.
The Elements Needed to Prove Embezzlement
Embezzlement cases often involve employer and employee relationships or similar. Stealing cash and misusing corporate funds or credit cards are the most common forms of embezzlement. However, embezzlement can also include falsely claiming overtime or accepting kickbacks from vendors without an employer’s knowledge. There are certain elements the State must establish for a conviction, including:
- There was a verifiable relationship and the defendant was responsible for handling the funds on behalf of the other party
- The defendant took possession and ownership of the funds or property as the result of the connection they had with the other party
- The actions of the accused individual were deliberate
The penalties a person faces for a conviction for embezzlement will depend on multiple factors including the value of the funds or property in question. Our Toledo embezzlement attorneys can answer specific questions about the potential outcome after reviewing the case.
For a free legal consultation with a embezzlement lawyer serving Toledo, call (419) 930-3030
Potential Penalties for an Embezzlement Conviction
Embezzlement cases fall under the statutes of crimes involving theft in Ohio. Under the Ohio Revised Code § 2913.02, theft occurs when an individual takes property or money from another through threats, deception, or intimidation. While it is a white-collar crime, the outcome of a guilty conviction can be just as severe as other crimes, including those that involve violence.
A person guilty of theft of up to $1,000 will receive a first-degree misdemeanor on their permanent criminal record, steep fines, and up to six months in jail. Penalty guidelines for amounts over $1,000 are as follows:
- Over $1,000 but less than $7,000 results in a fifth-degree felony, fines, and up to 12 months in jail
- $7,000 to $50,000 will mean receiving a fourth-degree felony, court fees and steep fines, and up to 18 months in jail
- $50,000 to $750,000 is a third-degree felony, with monetary penalties, and up to 36 months in prison
- $750,000 to 1 million dollars is a second-degree felony and 2-8 years in prison
- Over 1 million dollars is aggregate theft and will result in a first-degree felony and up to 11 years of imprisonment
Any person facing embezzlement charges must begin strategizing their defense immediately. Our Toledo embezzlement attorneys can investigate the circumstances surrounding the alleged offense and help prepare the best potential defense against the charges.
Criminal Defense Lawyer Near Me (419) 930-3030
Call a Toledo Embezzlement Attorney Today
Facing a conviction for embezzlement can be an extremely stressful time in your life. A guilty conviction could negatively affect nearly every part of your life. The sooner you begin preparing your defense, the better your chance of a positive outcome with the case.
Let a seasoned Toledo embezzlement lawyer investigate and help you strategize a solid defense. Call our firm soon to start going over your legal options.
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