Embezzlement is a crime that typically involves stealing from an organization that has entrusted an individual with access to company funds. It is a form of financial fraud. If you are at risk of being charged with embezzlement, you should be aware of the potential punishments for this crime in Idaho. A conviction for embezzlement carries severe penalties in Idaho. If you are arrested for this crime, you will need to contact an experienced financial crimes lawyer to ensure all your rights are protected and to build the best possible case for your defense.
If you have been charged with this crime, we can provide you with a free case review and advise you on your legal options.
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- Embezzlement meaning
- How is the Crime of Embezzlement Committed?
- Safeguards Against Embezzlement
- Is Embezzlement a Felony?
- Top Embezzlement Attorneys in Boise, Idaho
What is Embezzlement?
Embezzlement is a form of financial fraud. It is the appropriation or theft of funds or other assets from an employer or another party by someone who has been entrusted with that property. An embezzler might steal cash or other assets, such as real estate holdings, company equipment or vehicles, laptops, or other property owned by the organization.
Typically, the crime of embezzlement occurs when a person diverts an employer’s assets with which he or she is entrusted, with the intent to use the funds for his or her own purposes. But, even if the individual does not keep the property and instead transfers it to a different party, he/she is still guilty of embezzlement. If the embezzlement attempt fails, the individual can be arrested for attempted embezzlement.
How is the Crime of Embezzlement Committed?
There are many levels of embezzlement, from housekeeping staff stealing cleaning supplies to Fortune 500 CFOs diverting vast funds from company accounts. In the classic scenario, a person commits embezzlement by skimming funds from employer’s deposits or financial accounts and underreports the income totals.
This method of theft enables the perpetrator to maintain a steady supply of stolen funds and reduces their risk of being caught. A bolder embezzler may steal a very large amount once and then abscond with the stolen fortune to begin living in hiding in a remote location.
Safeguards Against Embezzlement
Many of today’s smallest and largest companies alike have put measures in place for protection against embezzlement. For example, they may divide responsibilities between multiple employees or departments to create a system of oversight. Embezzling under such conditions can be more challenging, requiring accomplices and splitting stolen funds, making the crime harder to commit and less profitable for the conspirators.
Is Embezzlement a Felony?
If you are found guilty of embezzlement in Idaho, the penalties can be extreme. The class of crime committed in embezzlement is determined by the amount of the victim’s loss. Under Idaho Code 18-2407.2:
- Petit Theft: Conviction for theft under $1,000 is petit theft, which can carry county jail time up to one year and a fine up to $1,000. (Idaho 18-2407.2)
- Grand Theft: Theft of an amount above $1,000 rises to grand theft and is typically classed as a felony. Felony theft in Idaho carries a minimum state prison sentence of one year and a maximum of 20 years and/or a fine of up to $10,000. (Idaho 18-2408)
The most severe embezzlement penalty Idaho allows means embezzlement charges can be very serious. So, if you think you are going to be charged with embezzlement, you will need to work with the best criminal defense lawyer available to you in Idaho.
Top Embezzlement Attorneys in Boise, Idaho
If you’re an investor or broker charged with embezzlement, you need to work with an experienced Idaho embezzlement attorney. Sawtooth Defense Attorneys have extensive knowledge of embezzlement cases and a proven record of building the most effective defense possible for clients in Idaho embezzlement cases.
