Last Updated on: 28th July 2023, 07:21 pm

Let’s Talk Federal Theft Crimes

If I told you that crimes like simple shoplifting and the enormous embezzlement of funds could land you in the same problematic canoe, would you believe me? You see, theft crimes differ greatly in degree and intensity, but unfortunately, many individuals underestimate how severe a theft charge can be. Under certain circumstances, you might end up cooling your heels in the slammer for a considerable number of years – and it’s worse if it’s a federal-level conviction.

Okay, you’re wondering when theft morphs into a federal affair? Well, it’s generally when it has something to do with public funds or manipulation of our financial system. A lot of white-collar federal crimes come under this umbrella of theft.

To put this in context, since the 2008 financial crisis, federal courts have started wielding a much larger proverbial stick against defendants, with judges dishing out stiff sentences as sharp lessons to deter others. Just imagine your case as a warning billboard saying “Steal, and this could be you.”

So You’re Facing Federal Theft Charges?

Look, this isn’t trivial – you need an attorney skilled in federal cases and armed with a chain of successes in securing acquittals in federal court. That’s where our firm and Todd Spodek of the Spodek Law Group come in. We’ve sparred in the federal court arena and emerged victorious in all manner of federal theft cases. Now, let us turn that experience to your aid.

Typical Federal Theft Crimes:

Let’s touch on some common federal theft crimes. These are the kinds we’ve fought tooth and nail against, and emerged victorious for our clients:

Swiping Public Money, Property or Records

Suppose you get accused of pilfering money, property, or records that belong to the U.S. government or any of its agencies. In that case, you’ll likely find yourself in federal court. Checking into the “federal court hotel” also comes with quite the punishment – you might face up to 10 years locked in federal lock-up, plus a fine and restitution.

Abusing Public Funds

If you’re entrusted with the government’s money or assets and mishandle them, you could end up with charges for misuse of public funds. This could involve a government official handing you some dough to safeguard which then allegedly finds its way into your account or somewhere else for personal use.

Bank Heists or Embezzlement

Ever dream of being a bank heist mastermind? Well, that dream might quickly turn into a nightmare. If you’re employed in a national bank and get accused of pocketing or embezzling funds from your employer, you’re looking at federal charges – not to mention potential jail time of up to 30 years and fines.

Theft or Bribery Linked to Federal-Funded Programs

If you’re suspected of inappropriately using public money allocated for a certain program or purpose, such as a school grant or public infrastructure project, you could face federal charges too. Penalties could include fines and a lengthy 10-year federal prison stint.

Racketeering

Racketeering is a fancy word for shady business dealings that lead to unfair profits. If deception with federal funds or the national banking system is involved, you’re looking at federal charges. Potential penalties can include fines up to twice the illegally obtained figure, alongside serving time in federal prison.

Let’s Talk Defense Strategies

The ins and outs of federal court are like a different dialect compared to state courts, so it’s key to have a lawyer who can speak this federal language fluently. It’s just not wise to trust your fate to pleas of mercy for being a first-timer – federal courts don’t usually play along. Todd Spodek, and his team at Spodek Law Group, come into this game with facts and substantive evidence to buttress your defense.

Potential defense strategies include things like claiming ignorance of the criminal nature of your actions, asserting that your actions were in good faith, or claiming coercion. Spodek will scrutinize your situation and guide you through various strategy options at your consultation. Should you need to discuss with a federal criminal defense lawyer today, don’t hesitate to beep us up at our office.