Many professionals charged with embezzlement, fraud or another white-collar crime never intended to break the law. But they found themselves in a desperate situation and felt they had to do things that put their professional reputation and self-respect at risk.
This can be especially true in cases of embezzlement. As fiduciaries, Minnesota accountants, financial advisors and other professionals entrusted with other parties’ money have a legal duty to manage those funds in the owner’s best interests. But addiction and personal financial struggles can push well-meaning fiduciaries past the breaking point.
Embezzlement and gambling addiction
It appears that is what happened to a Grand Rapids bookkeeper accused of embezzling more than $200,000 from her family business. Authorities there allege that the woman “spent heavily” at area casinos during the time the company’s money went missing and took a trip to Las Vegas. Police say she bet more than $136,000 at one casino in 2017 alone. Meanwhile, she was allegedly juggling at least a dozen credit cards.
When addiction leads to white-collar charges
It’s an unfortunate fact that a gambling addiction is often a factor in embezzlement cases. As their gambling losses grow out of control, the person may feel like they have no choice. They may start out believing they are only taking out a small amount of money nobody will miss, or that they will win enough money to replace the money quickly. Eventually, they get caught and face serious criminal charges.
Someone in this situation still has legal rights. Retaining a defense attorney familiar with white-collar charges is essential to reach the best possible outcome.