If you’re accused of embezzlement in Florida, it’s important to understand the charges against you and what your legal options are. The consequences are serious and have the potential to affect your finances, your career, and your personal life for years to come. Here’s what you should know and how you can protect yourself in the event that you’re accused of stealing money from your company.

Differentiating Embezzlement From Theft

Embezzlement is a type of theft that occurs when someone who has been entrusted with property or funds unlawfully appropriates them for their own use. This can happen in several ways, but some common examples include misappropriating company funds for personal expenses, pocketing cash payments instead of depositing them, or using corporate credit cards for personal charges.

The key difference between embezzlement and other types of theft is that the perpetrator has lawful possession of the property or funds before taking them. In other words, they are not stealing from someone else, but rather taking something that belongs to their employer or another person they have been entrusted with. This makes embezzlement a unique and complex crime, as it can be difficult to prove that the accused had criminal intent when they took the property.

What to Do If You’re Charged With Embezzlement

If you’re facing embezzlement charges, the first thing you should do is gather evidence to support your defense. This may include financial records, emails, or any other documentation that can show you didn’t intend to commit theft.

Exercise Your Right to Remain Silent

You should also exercise your right to remain silent, even when being questioned by the police. Anything you say to authorities or in a space where they can record you may be used against you in court. Detectives may lie in an attempt to get you to confess or name accomplices, and they may use immoral tactics to manipulate you into unwittingly giving them evidence to support your conviction.

Get Legal Help

Don’t wait to get legal assistance if you’ve been accused of embezzlement, or even if you’re simply being investigated. A lawyer can help protect your rights and make sure police officers follow the appropriate investigation and evidence collection procedures.

Call veteran Florida criminal defense attorney T. Martin Knopes by dialing 850-683-0700 to schedule your free initial consultation or get answers to your important questions. Serving Okaloosa County and surrounding metropolitan and rural areas.