If accused of embezzlement in Ohio, you need to understand the charges against you and the potential penalties. You can find the best defense to use with the right information since this crime can also ruin your career. Here’s an overview of Ohio’s embezzlement laws and the possible consequences if found guilty.
Embezzlement in Ohio
In Ohio, embezzlement is the theft of property or money by someone entrusted with that property or money. This type of white-collar crime can occur in a variety of contexts, but it typically involves someone in a position of authority taking advantage of their rank for personal gain. For example, if you are an employee entrusted with company funds and unlawfully take some of those funds for your own use, you can be charged with embezzlement.
The charges you might face
The charges you will face for embezzlement will depend on the amount of money you stole. According to Ohio’s theft statute, if you take any amount less than $1,000, your charge will be a misdemeanor in the first degree. Stealing anything above $1,000 is a felony offense.
Penalties for embezzlement in Ohio
The potential penalties for embezzlement in Ohio depend on the nature of the charge. If the property is valued at less than $1,000, you could face up to six months in jail and pay a $1000 fine. If you embezzle funds or property worth $1,000 to $7,500, you’ll likely face 12 months in prison and $2,000 in fines.
Embezzlement of $7,500 up to $150,000 could lead to 18 months in prison and fines up to $5,000. Any amount above $150,000 is punishable by three years in incarceration and $10,000 in fines.
Besides the legal penalties, you will likely lose your job and may have difficulty finding future employment. The court can also ask you to pay restitution to the victim of the crime.
If charged with embezzlement in Ohio, you should look through the specifics of your case to find the proper defense to use. For example, you could argue that you did not have the requisite position of trust or authority over the property, or you believed the property was actually yours.
