Former Microsoft sports marketing director Jeff Tran is currently facing embezzlement charges after being accused of trying to embezzle $1.5 million from the technology empire. Prosecutors believe that Tran used falsified bills for services that were never received in order to siphon money from Microsoft.

Tran also managed Microsoft's relationship with the NFL and was accused of selling off Super Bowl tickets that were intended to be distributed to Microsoft employees. He is accused of selling over 60 Super Bowl tickets, pocketing the $200,000 that he made from the sales.

If you are facing a charge of embezzlement in Washington state, you don't have to defend against your charge alone--Steve Karimi is committed to helping those who face criminal charges obtain the best possible outcome in their case.

What is Embezzlement?

Washington's embezzlement statute states that a person can be charged with the crime for stealing money, bank notes, certificates of stock, or valuable securities. While the term sounds complicated, embezzlement is simply another word for theft. The key difference between theft and embezzlement is a person's position--embezzlement occurs when a person in a position of trust or responsibility uses another person's money or property for his or her own use. Embezzlement is commonly thought of as a white-collar crime, as those who commit the crime generally do so in a nonviolent way.

Penalties for Embezzlement

The punishment a person can face if convicted of embezzlement depends on how much money was taken for personal gain. In Washington, theft is broken down into three categories called "degrees."

Embezzlement is considered theft in the first degree if the amount embezzled is over $5,000. A person convicted of first-degree theft is guilty of a Class B felony and can face a fine of up to $20,000 in addition to a prison sentence of up to ten years.

If a person embezzles between $750 and $5,000, they can be found guilty of theft in the second degree. This charge is a Class C felony and is punishable with a fine of up to $5,000 along with potential imprisonment for up to five years.

Embezzling under $750 is considered theft in the third degree, which is a gross misdemeanor charge. Those convicted of such a crime are subject to a fine of up to $5,000 and up to a year in a county jail.

Facing a Charge of Embezzlement? Steve Karimi Can Help

If you have been indicted for embezzlement in Seattle or elsewhere in the state of Washington, it's critical to seek legal assistance from an experienced criminal defense attorney as soon as possible following your charge. Don't try to defend against your charge on your own--embezzlement is a serious charge which can lead to outrageous fines and years in prison. Steve Karimi is dedicated to using his skills as a former prosecutor to help you defend against your charge as thoroughly as possible. Don't wait until it is too late to get the representation you need from an attorney you can trust--to speak with a member of our legal team about your charge, fill out an online case evaluation form or call (206) 621-8777 today.