Embezzlement Cases On The Rise
Whether due to tougher laws and enforcement or some other societal factor, law enforcement officials have recently acknowledged that white-collar crime and financial crime are on the rise. The latest cases in the spotlight: embezzlement accusations that affect management and lower-level workers alike.
The Beckley, Virginia Register-Herald recently published an article listing recent high-profile embezzlement cases, including a mechanical services company employee who is accused of stealing more than $400,000, a police department employee accused of siphoning off funds earmarked for drug investigations, and a pet store manager who has pleaded guilty to embezzling more than $20,000 with a false refund system that supported his gambling habit.
Law enforcement officials say that addiction is involved in nearly all embezzlement cases, from pricey drug habits to gambling. However, some individuals embezzle when faced with financial hardship and rising costs of living. Embezzlement cases range from simple (stealing change or helping one’s self to cash from a cash register) to complex (kick-backs, falsified records and cover-ups that can take huge investigations to unravel and years to be revealed).
Employers are advised to put “paper trails” in place to deter and track embezzlement attempts and require employees to abide by strict surveillance codes and accounting procedures. Spreading financial accountability throughout a company can also protect employers from embezzlement attempts.
Due to the rising number of embezzlement arrests, indictments and court cases, it is vital that anyone accused of embezzlement or other white-collar crimes, whether financial or otherwise, immediately seek competent counsel. The right white-collar defense attorney can protect your legal rights and your freedom if you’re accused of embezzlement or fraud. Contact Lependorf & Silverstein, P.C. immediately for a free case evaluation.
