What happens if you sustain an embezzlement conviction in Iowa?
In the Hawkeye State, the value of the money or property stolen determines the penalties for embezzlement. They are as follows:
Simple misdemeanor ($300 or less):
- Up to 30 days in jail
- A fine of up to $625
Theft in the fourth degree ($300 to $750);
- Up to 12 months in jail
- A fine of up to $1,875
If you allegedly did one of the following, you will most likely face aggravated misdemeanor charges:
- The embezzled property exceeds $750, but not $1,500
- The embezzled property does not exceed $750 and the defendant has two prior convictions
Aggravated misdemeanor:
- Up to 2 years in jail
- A fine of up to $6,250
Class D felony ($1,500 to $10,000):
- Up to 5 years in prison
- A fine of up to $7,500
Class C felony ($10,000 or more):
- Up to 10 years in prison
- A fine of up to $10,000
How do prosecutors charge embezzlement in Iowa?
You should note that the law allows that the authorities may aggregate, i.e. add together, the value of separate thefts to create a higher total theft amount. So long as you allegedly committed the separate thefts pursuant to the same scheme or course of conduct, prosecutors can lump the amounts together. If you allegedly deceived the victim on multiple occasions, prosecutors will add all the money together.
No matter the alleged amount, you should reach out to a skilled Des Moines criminal defense lawyer to discuss your next steps.
How can a Des Moines criminal defense attorney help you?
Even though statutory law governs the penalties and consequences of theft charges, a qualified legal representative can tell you how strong the case against you appears to be, as well as how prosecutors and judges tend to handle cases like yours. As a result, you will be able to make informed decisions about how you would like to proceed. Regardless of the strength of the prosecutor’s evidence, they will still need to prove your guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. You may have any number of mitigating or exculpatory circumstances that you can use. These charges are too serious to face on your own, so please give us a call today.
Contact Our Firm
Herting Law, PLLC, is an Iowa-based law firm that has experience in all criminal matters, including OWIs, drug charges, gun crimes, theft, assault, and more. If you need an estate planning lawyer, our firm can guide you. Whatever the situation, Herting Law, PLLC has you covered.
