Embezzlement Crime Attorneys

Most people have heard about high-profile embezzlement prosecutions, but many do not understand just what the offense of embezzlement entails. Embezzlement is typically defined as a type of property theft committed by a person who has lawful access to someone else’s money but takes advantage of that access to convert the money for their own use and personal gain.

The type of property embezzled also plays a part in determining the level of charges an accused person faces. Scientific property, such as biological samples, or microorganisms, inventions, information on technical processes, certain propriety information, and public records can land a person with a Class D felony embezzlement charge, even if the monetary value falls short of the $2000 to $10,000 range typically required for this level of felony offense.

Connecticut treats embezzlement crimes very seriously. Anyone convicted of an embezzlement crime faces substantial time in prison and hefty fines, depending on the value of the property embezzled, and the type of material stolen.

There are at least six different levels of embezzlement crimes in Connecticut, ranging from misdemeanors embezzlement charges to serious felonies. Persons convicted of embezzling funds more than $20,000 face up to 20 years in prison and $15,000 in fines – the penalty for a Class B felony, the most serious embezzlement crime.

The least severe embezzlement conviction – for stealing property valued at under $500 – carries a fine of up to $500 and three months in jail. Our dedicated embezzlement attorneys can seek reduced penalties, depending on the facts of the case and whether the accused is able to repay the funds taken.

Embezzlement can occur in all types of familial settings and professions and is a unique type of stealing since the accused holds a position of trust in managing or administering the funds.

A person mishandling an elderly family member’s money, a board member skimming funds from their organization, an employee using business funds to pay personal expenses, a bank teller stealing clients’ money, or a fund manager taking money from investors are all examples of persons committing embezzlement.

This violation of trust in a professional of fiduciary capacity is one reason why many states treat embezzlement offenses so harshly in terms of penalties.