Today a Rhode Island District Court Clerk was arraigned on felony embezzlement charges. The Rhode Island State Police allege that a Clerk of the Rhode Island District Court embezzled nearly $15,000 while collecting bail money and court warrant fines. The State Police believe that the Clerk pocketed the payments and failed to log the payments into the computer system. She was released on her own recognizance pending a future court date in Superior Court.
Felony Embezzlement Charges in Rhode Island
Embezzlement charges in Rhode Island are broken into two categories, misdemeanor and felony. Individuals who embezzle $100 or less can be charged with misdemeanor embezzlement and their case will be handled in the District Court, at least initially. Those alleged to embezzle more than $100 can be charged with felony embezzlement and those cases will be handled in the Superior Court. Embezzlement is prohibited by Rhode Island General Section 11-41-3 which provides that anyone entrusted with money or property and fraudulently converts the money or property to their own use is guilty of embezzlement.
Penalties for Felony Embezzlement in Rhode Island
If you are charged with misdemeanor embezzlement in Rhode Island you are facing a charge that carries a maximum sentence of one year in jail and up to a $1,000 fine. Felony embezzlement charges in Rhode Island carry a maximum of twenty years in jail and up to a $50,000 fine.
Should I hire a Defense Attorney for my Embezzlement Charges?
As a criminal defense attorney, I believe that anyone facing criminal charges that carry possible jail sentences should have a skilled and experienced criminal defense attorney assist them. Embezzlement charges pose unique challenges for criminal defense and require a defense that understands embezzlement charges. Typically the evidence in embezzlement charges involves complex financial records that can be difficult to decipher without the proper accounting background.
Why Hire Marin & Murphy Law Firm?
Attorney Matthew Marin has handled numerous embezzlement cases, including cases involving the theft of over $100,000. As an experienced Rhode Island criminal defense attorney, we can assist you in preparing your defense and work diligently to get you the best possible result for your case.
If you or a loved one has been charged with embezzlement or any other criminal offense in Rhode Island, you need to immediately call Attorney Matthew Marin for skilled and aggressive criminal defense representation. We will begin working immediately to ensure that your rights are protected and that you can put the best defense possible forward. Attorney Marin is available 24/7 to discuss your case and to schedule a no fee, confidential consultation at one of our convenient office locations. Contact us today by phone at 401-228-8271 or email at mm@matthewtmarin.com, or fill out the contact form on our Website.
