Mississippi Criminal Law BlogThere are some crimes that seem almost unforgivable. Stealing from veterans probably falls into this category for most Mississippi residents. Recently, it was reported that a man had been embezzling funds from the Mississippi Veterans Memorial Cemetery. It could be argued that this man was not only stealing from veterans, but that he was also stealing from veterans who had already passed away.
What kind of penalties might you face if you have committed credit card fraud in Mississippi? Does it actually matter who you stole from? For example, what if this man had stolen from an evil transnational corporation instead of a veterans’ cemetery?
Questions such as these are best left answered by legal experts. If you have been accused of credit card fraud or embezzlement in Mississippi, you should connect with an experienced criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. These professionals can assess your situation and determine what the best course of action should be.
He Spent the Money on “Barbecue Supplies, Toys, and Luggage”
In March of 2021, it was reported that the former director of the Mississippi Veterans Memorial Cemetery had turned himself in. He was indicted on embezzlement and fraud while holding public office. The former director was accused of using a credit card and fuel card to embezzle public money from Mississippi Veterans Affairs. He allegedly used the credit card to buy barbecue supplies, toys, and luggage. In addition, the director used the fuel card to make purchases far from the cemetery and when the equipment was not being operated. In total, he embezzled about $14,000 in public funds over a period of three years.
What is the Penalty for Embezzlement and Fraud Committed in Public Office?
In Mississippi, the penalty for embezzlement and fraud committed in public office is quite severe. Those guilty face ten years of prison, a fine of up to $5,000, or both. In the situation highlighted above, the individual also faced a demand letter of about $30,000. This represented the total amount the incident cost taxpayers, including interest and investigative expenses.
Are “Immoral” Crimes Punished More Severely?
Generally speaking, justice should be blind in the United States. Regardless of how “immoral” a crime may seem, the justice system should strive to treat everyone equally, and according to the law. The facts should be taken into account, and the guilty should be punished exactly in the way that is laid out by the law. That being said, jurors play an important role in the justice system. While they may not have control over the sentencing of a crime, they are unlikely to be very sympathetic towards an individual who has stolen from an organization like Mississippi Veterans Affairs.
Enlist the Help of a Qualified Attorney Today
If you have been accused of credit card fraud, it makes sense to connect with a qualified, experienced criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. Enlist the help of Vic Carmody Jr., P.A., and we can help you fight for your rights. Although credit card fraud is a serious offense in Mississippi, there are a number of helpful strategies you can employ to mitigate potential consequences. Book a consultation today and learn about your options.