Legal Question in Criminal Law in Pennsylvania

Who do I contact to report possible embezzlement?

I need to know who to contact to have someone investigated for possible embezzlement. It has been going on for a while, and finally I have some proof. Any information would be appreciated.


Asked on 11/12/99, 1:22 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys

Re: Who do I contact to report possible embezzlement?

There are a lot of factors to weigh here. First, are you an employer? Generally an employee should report any theft to his superior. The management then must consider several things, including: 1) can they recover the value of what was lost from insurance or the perp? 2) should they contact the local prosecutor?

A company's first concern usually is making itself whole. This may mean making a deal with the devil (the perp) to recover the loss. If the perp has a problem (drugs/ alcohol/ gambling/ women), it is unlikely you can get paid back by the perp. Does the perp have a problem? If so, then you may have nothing to lose by reporting the crime (keep in mind his family/ friends may have money and come to his aid to keep 'em out of trouble!!!). If you report it to your insurance co., always assume you have coverage until they deny that you have coverage for the loss, then fight with them anyway. Some of those policy clauses have been interperated pretty broadly. Your insurance co. will likely require you file a police report.

Next problem, do you know what your loss is? It is often very difficult to get a good number for your damages. Bring in an aggressive outside accountant to help you set a number, and include his fees in the 'loss'. If this is a big loss, contact me and I'll help you find a forensic accountant to help you.

Good luck.

Kevin J. Begley

Read more
Answered on 11/16/99, 5:44 pm


Related Questions & Answers

More Criminal Law questions and answers in Pennsylvania