White collar crimes, also known as economic crimes, is an umbrella term that encompasses various other offenses such as credit card fraud, identity theft, theft, forgery, and embezzlement. The crime of embezzlement is a form of theft crime, it is usually involved with other related offenses such as money laundering and forgery. Embezzlement is a serious crime and aside from criminal sentencing, there are also mandatory parole period for those convicted of felony theft offenses. If you or a loved one has been accused of embezzlement it is crucial to gain professional legal representation.
Lawyer for Embezzlement in Colorado Springs, CO
At Law Offices of Clifton Black, PC, our dedicated attorneys are veterans and experts in our respective fields who have been litigating and winning cases in the Colorado Courts for years. Whether you’ve been charged with forgery, identity theft or embezzlement, Law Offices of Clifton Black, PC is well prepared to assist you. Our veteran white collar crime defense attorneys recognize you may be up against a serious and life-changing event, which is why we are by your side from start to finish.
Overview of Embezzlement in Colorado
Embezzlement in Colorado
The criminal act of embezzlement involves the theft of another’s property or funds. According to Colo. Rev. Stat §18-4-403, the state has the authority to substitute “theft” with “embezzlement” when it is appropriate, except for cases involving embezzlement of public property (See Colo. Rev. Stat §18-4-407).
The embezzlement of public property is defined as “every public servant who lawfully or unlawfully comes into possession” of any property (e.g., funds) of the state and knowingly take the property for his or her own use. Additionally, if an individual if found guilty and convicted under the provisions of this section will be ineligible from being a member of the general assembly of this state or from holding any office of trust or profit in this state (See Colo. Rev. Stat §18-4-407).
Penalties
If you are facing accusations for embezzling private property, you may be charged with theft. There are multiple factors that can increase a defendant’s charges. Aggravating factors, that can negatively impact the defendant’s charges are if the accused is in a position of power or trust (e.g., caretaker).
Below is a table demonstrating the level of offense based on the value of the property that was stolen.
| Value of Property | Level of Offense | Fines | Jail/Prison Time |
| Less than $50 | Class 1 Petty Offense | Up to $500 | Up to 6 months in jail |
| $50 – $300 | Class 3 Misdemeanor | Up to $750 | Up to 6 months in jail |
| $300 – $750 | Class 2 Misdemeanor | Up to $1,000 | Up to 1 year in jail |
| $750 – $2,000 | Class 6 felony | Up to $5,000 | Up to 18 months in jail |
| $5,000 – $20,000 | Class 5 felony | Up to $100,000 | Up to 3 years in prison |
| $20,000 – $100,000 | Class 4 felony | Up to $500,000 | Up to 6 years in prison |
| $100,000 – $1 million | Class 3 felony | Up to $750,000 | Up to 12 years in prison |
| More than $1 million | Class 2 felony | Up to $1,000,000 | Up to 24 years in prison |
Additional Resources
Embezzlement of Public Property – Follow the link to the Colo. Rev. Stat §18-8-407.The document entails the laws of embezzlement of public property and the level of offense.
Stop Fraud Colorado – Follow the link to StopFraudColorado.gov, it was developed by the Consumer Protection Section of the Colorado Attorney General’s Office. The main goal of the website is to protect consumers and business from fraudulent activities. Also, the website provide information on different types of fraud crimes, tactics on how to avoid schemes, and resource guides.
Criminal Defense Attorney for Embezzlement in Colorado
Embezzlement and other forms of white-collar offenses should be taken seriously. The consequences include serving time in prison or jail, paying hefty fines, gaining a criminal record, hindering future employment opportunities, and much more. Having an experienced legal team by your side can help reduce the charges against you or have them dismissed. At Law Offices of Clifton Black, PC, our dedicated and experienced criminal defense attorneys are here to help you. Contact us at (719) 328-1616 to schedule a consultation. Our defense lawyers represent people throughout the greater Colorado Springs area including Monument, Calhan, Fountain and Manitou Springs.