Cleveland Embezzlement Defense Attorneys

Accused of Embezzling Funds or Property in Cleveland, OH?

Facing embezzlement charges can be overwhelming and life-altering. These charges often carry severe penalties, including hefty fines, restitution, and even imprisonment. At Patituce & Associates, our experienced legal team is dedicated to protecting your rights and crafting a strategic defense to secure the best possible outcome for your case. If you’re in need of a trusted Cleveland embezzlement defense lawyer, we’re here to help.

Call (440) 771-1175 or contact us online today to schedule a free initial consultation.

What is Embezzlement?

Embezzlement is a form of theft that occurs when someone entrusted with another party’s money or property misuses it for their own personal benefit. Unlike traditional theft, embezzlement involves a breach of trust. It commonly arises in employment settings, where employees, managers, or executives misuse funds or assets they were authorized to manage.

Embezzlement can take many forms, such as the following:

• Employee Theft: An employee taking money from a cash register or falsifying expense reports.
• Misappropriation of Funds: A financial advisor diverting client investments for personal use.
• Payroll Fraud: Inflating paychecks, creating fake employees, or collecting wages for hours not worked.
• Skimming: Withholding a portion of profits or revenue before it is officially recorded.
• Asset Misuse: Using company property, such as vehicles or equipment, for unauthorized personal gain.
• Check Forgery: Writing unauthorized checks or altering existing ones to steal funds.

Ohio Embezzlement Laws & Penalties

Ohio’s theft laws govern embezzlement offenses, with penalties varying based on the value of the stolen property or funds. Under Ohio Revised Code § 2913.02, embezzlement can range from a misdemeanor to a felony, depending on the circumstances:

• Misdemeanor Theft: Theft of property valued at less than $1,000 can result in up to 180 days in jail and a fine of up to $1,000.
• Felony Theft:
  • Fifth-Degree Felony: Property valued between $1,000 and $7,500; penalties include 6 to 12 months in prison and fines up to $2,500.
  • Fourth-Degree Felony: Property valued between $7,500 and $150,000; penalties include 6 to 18 months in prison and fines up to $5,000.
  • Third-Degree Felony: Property valued between $150,000 and $750,000; penalties include 1 to 5 years in prison and fines up to $10,000.
  • Second-Degree Felony: Property valued between $750,000 and $1,500,000; penalties include 2 to 8 years in prison and fines up to $15,000.
  • First-Degree Felony: Property valued over $1,500,000; penalties include 3 to 11 years in prison and fines up to $20,000.

Beyond legal penalties, individuals convicted of embezzlement may face civil lawsuits, career consequences, and damage to their personal reputation. At Patituce & Associates, we understand the high stakes of these charges and work tirelessly to protect your future.

Is Embezzlement a Federal Crime?

Embezzlement can also be prosecuted as a federal crime if it involves interstate commerce, federally regulated entities, or federal funds. Examples include embezzlement from a federally insured bank, government agency, or non-profit organization that receives federal grants.

Federal embezzlement cases are prosecuted under laws such as 18 U.S. Code § 656 and other relevant statutes. Penalties for federal embezzlement are often harsher than state charges, including substantial prison time and fines.

Why Choose Patituce & Associates?

If you’re facing embezzlement charges in Cleveland, having an experienced defense attorney by your side is critical. At Patituce & Associates, we bring decades of experience handling complex white-collar crime cases.

Here’s why we’re the right choice:

• Proven Track Record: We’ve defended numerous clients against embezzlement charges in Cleveland and throughout Ohio.
• Personalized Strategies: Every case is different, and we customize our defense approach to align with your goals and circumstances.
• Aggressive Representation: We fight tirelessly to protect your rights and seek the best outcome, whether that’s a dismissal, reduced charges, or acquittal.
• Local Knowledge: As Cleveland-based lawyers, we’re deeply familiar with local courts, prosecutors, and legal nuances.

To discuss your case with our team, contact us today at (440) 771-1175.