In Virginia, a former executive of the Bristol Tennessee-Virginia Association of Realtors is under investigation for embezzlement, after $158,000 went missing from the organization. Also, a former treasurer of Bradley Street Baptist Church in Bristol, VA is being investigation for allegedly writing $14,000 in checks from the church's accounts to himself. These are just a few examples of recent embezzlement cases in Virginia, but don't assume that just because these people are being investigated they are guilty of the crime.

In order to be convicted of embezzlement in Virginia as a felony, three things must be proved. First, the government must prove that you fraudulently removed money from another for your own gain. Second, that someone else entrusted you based on your employment position. Lastly, that the value of the theft was over $200. If the value was less than $200, then the crime is considered a misdemeanor.

Embezzlement is a type of financial fraud and is considered a white-collar crime, as it is not violent in nature. There are penalties and charges associated with this type of crime that depend on the total amount embezzled and the specifics of the situation. Sometimes probation and community service are also penalties that may be applied in some cases.

Penalties for a misdemeanor embezzlement charge include:

• Jail time - up to 12 months maximum; and/or
• Fine - up to $2,500

Penalties for a convicted felony embezzlement charge include:

• Jail time - from one to 20 years in a state correctional facility
• Fine - up to $2,500
• Restitution in some cases

If the amount of money that was embezzled was small, a criminal defense attorney may be able to help you avoid jail and coordinate alternative penalties such as repaying of the amount embezzled or paying additional court fines and other fees.

If you have been charged with embezzlement or any form of theft including grand larceny in Northern Virginia, you need to seek the legal advice of an experienced Virginia criminal defense attorney. Embezzlement is a serious crime that can lead up to 20 years in jail and heavy fines. An attorney may have options and defenses available to use in your case which may help to lessen your charges or minimize your jail time. Just because you have been charged with embezzlement doesn't mean there will be a conviction.

Call the Wilson Law Firm today, and we will review your situation and provide you with the best defense strategies available in your case. We have handled many embezzlement and theft cases and know what it takes to provide a strong defense. We will interview witnesses and investigate the evidence to poke holes in the case the prosecutor has against you. Call a northern Virginia criminal defense lawyer at (703) 361-6100 today.