Minnesota banker sentenced to prison, convicted of embezzlement

To the south of Minneapolis, in Jackson, Minnesota, a 66-year-old woman recently pled guilty to embezzlement. Whether it was because she pled guilty, the nature of her crime or her age, the judge was extremely lenient and only sentenced her to one year in jail. Embezzlement is a serious crime and often carries a considerable prison term, making it extremely important to work closely with an experienced white-collar criminal defense attorney.

The woman was a former bank officer and admitted to stealing anywhere from $30,000 to $120,000 from bank customers. It seems the embezzlement took place over a six-year period, between January 2005 and August 2011. It is unclear what tipped off investigators or what evidence they found of the woman’s embezzlement before she was ultimately arrested and charged.

Though this woman has received a remarkably short sentence, her case still illustrates the importance of an experienced embezzlement attorney. Embezzlement is often a felony and quickly stirs up intense emotions amongst the community. Because the crime requires not only theft but also a breach of trust, many people are quick to judge someone accused of embezzlement. Risking your freedom and reputation by trying to deal with both the criminal and social aspects of defending a white-collar crime charge alone could turn disastrous. Missing even the smallest section of law could lead to a conviction and years in prison.

For this woman, it seems that she will also be forced to pay over $100,000 in restitution to her apparent victims.

Source: CBS Minnesota, “Former Bank Officer Sentenced To 1 Year For Embezzlement,” Aug, 21, 2012

To learn more about embezzlement charges is Minnesota, visit our website.

He has won jury trial cases in misdemeanor and felony cases and in DWI’s and non-DWI’s. He is a member of the Minnesota Society for Criminal Justice, which only allows the top 50 criminal defense attorneys in the state as members. He is a frequent speaker at CLE’s and is often asked for advice by other defense attorneys across Minnesota.

What to Do If You Have Been Charged with a Criminal Offense

Involve a criminal appeal attorney soon after you learn the prosecution is appealing your sentence. Your attorney will walk you through the involving and confusing sentencing guidelines. An attorney's involvement will also help you develop a defense strategy for the appeal.