Facing allegations of unlawful behavior can be stressful under any circumstance, as even the news of such activity may be enough to diminish one’s reputation. However, such challenges might not be near as daunting as facing a conviction for charges such as embezzlement, as the penalties of a conviction could impact various aspects of a person’s life. The founder of a nonprofit in Florida that provides benefits to families of deceased police officers could be in search of advice after a recent investigation has left her facing embezzlement charges.
Investigation into embezzlement
Reports indicate that the woman founded the organization in memory of her father, who died in the line of duty when she was 7 years old. According to reports, authorities began investigating the nonprofit after they claimed to have received information indicating the organization was not registered with the state. During this investigation, authorities claim to have uncovered evidence of various types of financial discrepancies.
Authorities say they discovered evidence indicating that the founder of the non-profit had taken funds from the organization and deposited them into a bank account under her name. She stands accused of embezzling funds from the organization and for failing to obtain the proper registrations. According to reports, her husband stands accused of taking unspecified proceeds from the organization without registering as a professional solicitor.
Embezzlement charges
Reports indicated that the woman could face up to 15 years in prison if convicted of embezzlement. Individuals in Florida who face similar allegations and remain uncertain of how best to proceed could find it helpful to consult with an attorney for advice in evaluating their situations and addressing their available options. An attorney can work toward protecting a client’s legal rights, provide guidance in making informed choices about the situation, and help him or her create a strong defense for use during subsequent court proceedings.