Difference Between Larceny And Embezzlement

You might think that theft is theft and that the process or method of acquisition of someone else’s property wouldn’t have much differentiation if any. However, there is a difference between Larceny and Embezzlement and the prosecution of the two separate crimes contains many variances. Both crimes are theft related and involve taking someone else’s property without permission.

Larceny

Larceny includes the process of taking someone else’s property without it having ever been in your possession prior to the act of theft. This would include walking into a business or home and stealing items and taking possession of them and then walking out of the property and then giving yourself ownership of the stolen items.

You had no prior ownership to any of the items that were taken. These items could have been property with which you were familiar with and had planned the theft in advance, or it could be items that were unknown to you before you decided to commit larceny. But they were never in your possession or use prior to the crime.

Embezzlement

Embezzlement differs in that the person committing the crime has had possession of the item or items taken without permission, prior to the act of theft. This includes lawful possession of the property including any items that are utilized during the act of performing your job for your employer.

This could include any and all materials provided to you in the course of performing your job whether monetary or physical property. Embezzlement includes the removal of money from the company and placing it in your possession and taking ownership and includes the removal of property. Often, the embezzlement means that a person of trust has taken advantage of their status within the company and committed theft in spite of that position.

Contact A Legal Representative

If you have been placed in a situation where you are facing crimes of larceny or embezzlement, choose to have an experienced attorney on your side giving you the best representation possible. Contact Morrison Law Firm today online or by calling (913) 780-6666.