Michigan Embezzlement Laws

Created by FindLaw's team of legal writers and editors | Last reviewed February 28, 2018

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Embezzlement is a type of theft or larceny that occurs when a person steals money or property while in a position of responsibility or trust over the money or property. For example, if a store clerk steals money from the cash register while he or she is working, it would be considered embezzlement. Most states have separate statutes addressing theft/larceny and embezzlement, and Michigan is one of those states.

Michigan devotes a chapter in its Penal Code to address various types of embezzlement. Embezzlement is divided into different statutes based on various factors, such as the identity of the offender and the character of the property. For example, embezzlement by a public officer is addressed separately from embezzlement by an executor. It's important to take note of the details surrounding the embezzlement as each statute has its own set of possible penalties.

Michigan Embezzlement Laws Overview

Below you'll find key provisions of embezzlement laws in Michigan.

Statute(s)

Michigan Penal Code Section 750.174 (Embezzlement by agent, servant or employee, or trustee, bailee, or custodian)
What's Prohibited?

It's prohibited for a person to fraudulently dispose of or convert to his or her own use any money or other personal property that's under the person's possession or control as a result of the person being the agent, servant, employee, trustee, bailee, or custodian of the property's owner. It's prima facie proof of intent to embezzle if defendant refuses, fails, or neglects to pay, deliver, or refund the money or property to the owner upon demand.
Charges and Penalties

The charges and penalties for violating Section 750.174 generally depend on various factors including the value of the property that has been embezzled and if the offender has previous convictions under this section.

Related Statute(s)

Michigan Penal Code

Note: State laws are always subject to change through the passage of new legislation, rulings in the higher courts (including federal decisions), ballot initiatives, and other means. While we strive to provide the most current information available, please consult an attorney or conduct your own legal research to verify the state law(s) you are researching.

Michigan Embezzlement Laws: Related Resources

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Get Legal Help with Your Embezzlement Case in Michigan

Depending on the circumstances, embezzlement can have serious penalties including the possibility of fines and/or imprisonment. If you've been charged under Michigan's embezzlement laws it's in your best interests to get in touch with a skilled criminal defense attorney in Michigan to find out more about the penalties you're facing and to prepare your defense.

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