Pensacola Theft Attorney

Theft crimes are a serious matter because of their impact on individuals, groups, businesses, and even the government. Whether these offenses involve nonviolent crimes (such as shoplifting), white-collar crimes (such as fraud), or violent crimes (such as armed robbery), they all have the intent to deprive others of their rightful possessions, assets, or property. As such, they have dishonesty in common, whether by deceit or by force. This means that theft convictions will mark defendants as unscrupulous or corrupt.

Ensuring that you have a vigorous defense is vital when facing any type of theft accusation. Your reputation, your livelihood, and often your freedom are on the line, depending on the type and severity of the offense. That is why we strongly urge you to turn to Crawford Law, where you will find criminal defense representation that is committed to your best interests, the upholding of your constitutional rights, and based on the principle that you are innocent until proven guilty. 

White-Collar Theft Crimes in Florida

In Florida, theft is defined as the act of knowingly taking or using someone else's property or assets with the intent to deprive that person or benefit from it without their consent. Theft can include stealing goods, services, and any property or possessions owned by others. In the context of white-collar crimes, it is generally a nonviolent crime committed for financial gain or benefit. 

White-collar theft crimes can be committed against one person; a group; a business; an institution (such as a bank); or local, state, or federal agencies. These crimes often involve sophisticated fraudulent schemes committed by professionals, executives, accountants, and others with access to financial matters. They may also be committed by networks of individuals working together. 

Common examples of white-collar theft crimes include:

• Embezzlement: This is a crime in which an individual misappropriates money that has been entrusted to them by their employer or another organization. Embezzlement may involve taking money from a cash register, stealing funds from an organization's accounts, or even skimming a small amount off the top of many transactions over a long period.
• Forgery: Forgery involves creating false documents or altering existing documents to steal money or property. Examples of forgery include altering checks or legal documents, creating fake IDs, or forging signatures on financial instruments.
• Money laundering: This crime involves taking money that has been obtained through illegal means (such as drug sales) and "laundering" it through legitimate businesses or organizations. Money laundering often involves complex transactions and hidden bank accounts.
• Identity theft: This type of theft involves stealing personal information, such as a Social Security number or credit card information and using it to commit fraud or other crimes.
• Tax evasion: This refers to failure to pay the full amount of taxes owed to government agencies. 
• Credit card theft: This involves stealing another’s credit card information and using it to make unauthorized purchases or transactions. 
• Counterfeiting: Counterfeiting involves making fake versions of currency, documents, or other valuable items with the intent to deceive or defraud.
• Ponzi schemes: These are investment scams in which earlier investors are paid with the money of new investors, rather than legitimate returns on investments, to create the appearance of profitable returns.

Penalties for White-Collar Theft in Florida

The penalties for white-collar theft crimes in Florida can be severe and may include fines, restitution, probation, and even jail time. The severity of the penalty depends on the value of the stolen property, the sophistication of the scheme, and the number of victims involved. 

Examples of penalties include: 

• Embezzlement: Embezzlement of funds valued under $20,000 is a third-degree felony, which carries a penalty of up to five years in prison and a fine of up to $5,000. Embezzlement of funds valued over $20,000 is a second-degree felony, which carries a penalty of up to 15 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000. Embezzlement of funds of $100,000 or more is a first-degree felony punishable by up to 30 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.
• Money laundering: Money laundering is a first-degree felony in Florida, which carries a penalty of up to 30 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.
• Forgery: Forgery is a third-degree felony in Florida, which carries a penalty of up to five years in prison and a fine of up to $5,000. 

Reach Out to Crawford Law Today

Being accused of any type of theft can have serious and long-term consequences. Putting a proven criminal defense lawyer on your side is essential. At Crawford Law, our attorney can help you navigate the legal system and will work vigorously to reduce the impact of the charges against you. The sooner you reach out to our firm, the sooner we can give you the legal protections you need and begin building a defense strategy seeking your best interests. 

Arrange for a confidential consultation with our Pensacola theft lawyer at Crawford Law. Call (850) 220-2098 or send us your contact details today.