Several high profile cases of embezzlement and other white collar crimes are putting a spotlight on Orange County – and not in a good way. While there’s certainly an argument to be made that these high-level people committing financial malfeasance should be held responsible, it’s also true that some people are being unfairly targeted due to urging from the public to drain the swap.
A charge of embezzlement is a serious charge. A conviction can lead to years in prison. In order to provide you with the best defense possible, we need to work with you right away. Contact Chambers Law Firm at 714-760-4088 sooner rather than later to get a criminal defense attorney working on your side.
The legal definition of embezzlement
According to California Penal Code Section 503 PC, the term embezzlement refers to a person fraudulently taking property from a person who has entrusted them with that property. Some common examples an employee taking money from their employer, a public official taking money from the public, or the director of a non-profit diverting funds for their own use. Note that embezzlement doesn’t simply refer to taking money – it only refers to a person taking money from someone who’s entrusted them with said money.
Several high profile cases have been in the news recently
In the beginning of 2016, we saw numerous high profile charges of embezzlement in the Orange County area. First was Representative Dana Rohrabacker’s campaign treasurer. He was arrested for embezzling more than $300,000 from numerous bank accounts, all of which were connected to her campaign. Then a youth soccer league in Long Beach was embroiled in controversy when their treasurer was charged with embezzling nearly $175,000.
What do these cases have to do with yours?
While the above cases involve well-known cases of embezzlement from officials noteworthy enough to make the news, most cases of embezzlement aren’t nearly this sensational. They often involve small offices and people who either inadvertently made a mistake with the books or made a snap decision that’s now haunting them. However, with the high profile cases in this area, the police and DA’s office are hungrier than ever for convictions for these types of cases. This is why you need an excellent attorney.
The potential consequences for embezzlement
If you’re arrested for stealing more than $950 then you could be facing grand theft embezzlement. This is a felony and it can result in several years in prison. In most cases, an embezzlement charge will come with other charges as well, such as forgery or computer fraud. Those additional charges can be the reason you spend years in prison versus months.
The good news is that you’re not in this alone. At Chambers Law Firm, we have your best interests in mind and always assume innocence until guilt is proven. We are here to go through your case, let you know your options, and tirelessly advocate for you. You deserve a rugged defense and that’s what we can provide. Call us today at 714-760-4088 to get started.
