In the state of Oklahoma, embezzlement is a serious charge that can result in several years in prison. While some cases involve small sums of money, large-scale embezzlement can involve thousands or millions of dollars. Here’s a rundown of the definition of embezzlement.
What is embezzlement?
Embezzlement involves gaining access to your company’s finances through legal means and directing that money into your own accounts. Typically, the money or financial information is entrusted with an employee who has strict instructions on managing it. It’s not illegal for them to have access to that cash and even use it to some degree. But it is illegal if they divert that money into their own funds for personal use.
A person can commit embezzlement in a number of ways. Some people make fake receipts for purchases and divert that money into a separate savings account. Others write fake invoices for a business that doesn’t exist. Sometimes they work with a partner to help them transfer the money without raising suspicion.
Like most white-collar crimes, embezzlement can happen just about anywhere. Some embezzlers target large businesses so they can move large sums of money into their bank accounts. Others steal money from small businesses. If a gas station cashier steals money from the register, that’s technically a form of embezzlement. No matter how much or how little they steal, however, embezzlement is still a serious crime.
What if you’re charged with embezzlement?
Embezzlement might be a serious charge, but that doesn’t mean it’s impossible to fight in court. In some cases, charges may come about over a simple misunderstanding. In others, you may face charges for a crime that you didn’t commit. An attorney could help you sort out the issue and clear your name in front of the judge.
