Employee theft is a common problem for employers. Whether it is as small as taking home a ream of paper or a couple thumb drives in an office setting, merchandise from a retailer, or cash from the drawer, employee theft could rise to a serious criminal offense in some instances and many employers have systems in place to be able to detect employee theft.
Employees have varying reasons for stealing from an employer. Some may feel that they are not paid enough and see an office supply or two as a perk which the employer can easily absorb. Some may come under pressure from another employee to shoplift or believe that if everyone else is doing it, ‘why shouldn’t I’? There may even be those who are facing real financial hardship leading them to make poor decisions.
Unfortunately, many employees do not realize how serious the consequences can be if they are caught. An employee may not only be subject to termination, but may also face criminal charges that could result in incarceration, fines, restitution and other damages.
Wisconsin Employee Theft Charges
Under Wisconsin’s general criminal theft law, the severity of the crime is based on the value of the goods taken:
If the value of the property does not exceed $2,500, the accused may be charged with a Class A misdemeanor, which is punishable by a fine not to exceed $10,000 and/or imprisonment not to exceed nine months in jail.
If the value of the property exceeds $2,500 but does not exceed $5,000, the accused may be charged with a Class I felony, which is punishable by a fine not to exceed $10,000 and/or imprisonment not to exceed three years and six months in prison.
If the value of the property exceeds $5,000 but does not exceed $10,000, the accused may be charged with a Class H felony, which is punishable by fine not to exceed $10,000 and/or imprisonment not to exceed six years in prison.
If the value of the property exceeds $10,000, the accused may be charged with a Class G felony, which is punishable by a fine not to exceed $25,000 and/or imprisonment not to exceed ten years in prison.
Contact an Experienced Employee Theft Charges Lawyer for Help
If you have been charged with employee theft it is important to seek the assistance of an experienced criminal defense lawyer immediately. The Wisconsin employee theft criminal defense lawyers of Andrew C. Ladd LLC can help. Call us at 262-542-3900 for a free consultation of your case today.
