Legal Question in Criminal Law in Massachusetts

Accused of theft

My daughter was asked to come into the police station and was told the detective believes she is responsible for stealing between 30,00-50,000 dollars from a former employer. Her husband later was able to find out there is a $1300 deposit missing. She has torn her car and house apart to see if she might have misplaced it. Is it possible the detective was exaggerating to try and scare her? She is just terrified, he had her in there for 2 hours, she has never done anything has no record whatsoever. She is devastated that her former employer is accusing her of this and that he didn't just call her. What is the worst case scenario? She left that job 5 months ago. Can she be arrested? Why would the police be involved instead of her former employer just going to a lawyer? It was a doctors office and everyone handled the money but she was the office manager.

Thanks so much for any help.


Asked on 9/08/07, 9:05 pm

3 Answers from Attorneys
George Davis Law Office of T. George Davis, Jr.

Re: Accused of theft

Whether or not the detective was "exaggerating to try to scare" your daughter, she needs to consult with a criminal defense attorney about this ASAP. This is obviously a very serious situation, and she shouldn't proceed further without the benefit of professional counsel. As to why her former employer went to the police instead of to a lawyer, what would you do it the situation were reversed? Speaking for myself, I'd go to the police. Moreover, her former employer can still go to a lawyer and file a civi suit AFTER the criminal process has run its course. Good luck.

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Answered on 9/08/07, 9:36 pm
henry lebensbaum Law Offices of Henry Lebensbaum (978-749-3606)

: Accused of theft

Accusations as George said are extremely serious. If the police have probable cause, she can either be arrested or summonsed to court for an arraignment on criminal charges.

Given the amount, you should contact a criminal defense attorney. I have been doing such work for 16 years. You can contact me at anytime.

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Answered on 9/08/07, 10:20 pm
Daniel Maloney Law Offices of Daniel J. Maloney

Re: Accused of theft

Worst case scenario is an arrest. You need a lawyer as soon as possible in order to take some proactive steps which could prevent an arrest and other negative consequences. Ultimately, these types of charges are very difficult to prosecute because of the complex nature of the transactions. Feel free to call if you need any further assistance.

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Answered on 9/10/07, 10:45 am


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