Embezzlement is a form of property theft that often occurs when a person who is entrusted to manage or care for another party’s money or property steals all or part of the money or property for their own personal gain. The distinguishing characteristic of this type of white collar crime is that a defendant has legal access to another’s money or property, but not legal ownership, making their acts both a form of stealing and a violation of trust. Commonly charged against bank tellers or individuals in positions of authority over a company’s funds, accusations of embezzlement are extremely serious and can expose a defendant to the possibility of serving harsh criminal consequences.
If you have been charged with embezzlement, contact a Milwaukee criminal defense lawyer from the Law Offices of Christopher J. Cherella immediately. With more than 20 years of experience defending the accused, our founding attorney, Christopher J. Cherella, can contest the evidence against you and protect your rights every step of the way during this frightening time.
Past clients have trusted us with their cases for the following reasons:
- Avvo Client’s Choice Award recipient
- Available 24/7 to discuss your case
- Invaluable experience as a former prosecutor
- Thousands of cases handled
Call (414) 347-9334 today to discover your defense options in detail.
What Are the Penalties for Embezzlement in WI?
Penalties for embezzlement will vary depending on the value and type of property allegedly stolen:
- Less than $2,500 stolen: Up to 9 months in jail, $10,000 in fines, or both
- More than $2,500, but less than $5,000 stolen: Up to 3 ½ years in prison, $10,000 in fines, or both
- More than $5,000, but less than $10,000 stolen: Up to 6 years in prison, $10,000 in fines, or both. These penalties also apply to the embezzlement of a domestic animal, firearm, property from a disabled adult in a care facility, or property from a building destroyed or unoccupied due to riots or a natural disaster.
- More than $10,000 stolen: Up to 10 years in prison, $25,000 in fines, or both. These penalties also apply to property stolen from a corpse.
In addition to the above penalties, a conviction of any sort of white collar crime can inflict permanent damage to your personal and professional reputation, minimizing your options for employment and eroding trust amongst friends and family. Our firm understands the strategies that prosecutors typically use in these types of cases and can help you craft a strong defense against their claims. Depending on the circumstances, we may be able to negotiate for a reduction or even dismissal of your charges entirely.
Defending the Accused Since 1991
While our criminal justice system was built upon the principal that a defendant is innocent until proven guilty, merely the implication of embezzlement can cause prejudices to form in the minds of judges and juries and put you at an immediate disadvantage. At the Law Offices of Christopher J. Cherella, our Milwaukee white collar crime attorney can provide the aggressive advocacy you need to level the playing field and give you a fighting chance against your accusations. We understand the gravity of your situation, and we are prepared to ensure no stone is left unturned in the defense of your freedom.
Every second counts – get in touch with us today to get started.