When times are tough, some people in Florida and elsewhere might succumb to the temptation to take funds from their employers with the intention of putting it back when times improve. However, in some embezzlement cases, it is not so easy to explain the motivation. People in Florida might be interested in a case in which two nuns in another state face criminal charges for allegedly misappropriating funds of a Catholic school to finance their gambling habits.
Although initial reports indicated that the archdiocese did not plan to file criminal charges against the two Sisters, this decision was changed after a meeting with parents. This was when the school community learned that the two nuns allegedly embezzled approximately $500,000 and that the money was used for personal matters — suspected to be gambling. Parents were outraged, and the archdiocese announced that it would seek restitution from the religious order to which the nuns belong and cooperate with the police department in the criminal investigation.
A spokesperson said that financial records were examined after both the nuns retired in 2018. One of them was a school principal, and the other one was a vice principal. The religious order confirmed that they were advised about the intention of the archdiocese to file criminal charges, and they confirmed their willingness to cooperate.
The outcome of this case will become clear later, but people in Florida in similar circumstances might do well to remember that they will remain innocent in the eyes of the law until, and if, guilt has been proven beyond a reasonable doubt. When there are signs of an imminent investigation and allegations of embezzlement, it might be the best time to secure the services of an experienced criminal defense attorney. A lawyer can explain the legal options and then advocate for the defendant throughout legal proceedings in pursuit of the best possible outcome for the client.
