Embezzlement in Oklahoma is a common Oklahoma City crime. Some situations we’ve seen include Two city of Tulsa Water and Sewer Dep’t. employees have been charged with embezzlement of over $135,000.  The employees were given credit cards to make purchases for the department.  However, they often purchased personal items for themselves instead.  Both offenders are currently awaiting their day in court.  Embezzlement is a serious crime.  If you find yourself in a situation where you are facing embezzlement charges, read on to understand more and how we can help you.

What Embezzlement Means:

Under Oklahoma law, embezzlement basically means the fraudulent using of public or legally obtained money for a private purpose, or a purpose not intended by the entity providing the money.  For example in the Water and Sewer Dep’t. case above,  the employees had legal credit cards.  However, the intent was that they purchase necessary items for the department.  The employees though, used the cards to purchase personal items without department approval.  This is classic embezzling.   Even the most minute purchase can be embezzlement.  Thus it is important to make all company purchases within the rules of the company’s operating procedures.

Penalties for Embezzlement in Oklahoma

The penalties for embezzling are found in 21 Okl.St.Ann. §1451(B) & (C).  They coincide with the amount embezzled as listed below:

– Less than $500: a fine up to $1,000 and/or a maximum jail sentence up to a year.

– If between $500-$1,000: a misdemeanor, fines up to $5,000, a maximum 1 years jail sentence, & restitution to victim(s)

– If between $1,000-$25,000: a felony, fines up to $5,000, a jail sentence of up to 5 years in prison, & restitution payments to victims

– Over $25,000:  a felony, fines up to $10,000, a jail sentence up to 10 years, & restitution to victims.

As you can see, steep penalties apply to anyone receiving embezzlement convictions.  Further, the felony conviction can ruin your chances of gainful employment and in some cases child custody.  This is not a good place to be in.

Let Our OKC Attorneys Help You Fight Embezzlement Charges:

We understand that embezzlement may occur on accident or even mistakenly.  Don’t let a slip up keep you from a productive future.  Our attorneys know the law and can help you out of a tough situation.  We want to make sure that you get the best possible defense.  Therefore our first consultation is free. Send us an email or call us today and talk with an OKC embezzlement attorney.