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Different Types of White Collar Crimes
Nov 12, 2014 by Adler Markoff & Associates
The term ‘white collar crime’ was first popularized in the 1930s and refers to a non-violent act that an individual or corporation is being prosecuted for. There are a handful of different crimes that fall under this category, including embezzlement, forgery, and bribery.

The penalties for most white collar crimes vary depending on their severity, but in many cases the accused party will be subject to jail or prison time, fines, and restitution. It should be noted that the majority of people charged with white collar crimes are first-time offenders who have never had any interaction with the criminal justice system. With this, many people who are charged with white collar crimes knew that they were being investigated by the government.

Below you will find more information on white collar crimes, including definitions of the most common types.

Most Common White Collar Crimes

Bribery
Bribery is one of the most prosecuted white collar crimes in Oklahoma. Bribery occurs when an individual illegally gives another person an item of value in exchange for that person changing their opinion or providing them with an item that they otherwise would not have received.

Embezzlement
Unfortunately, crimes of embezzlement have risen in popularity over the years. Embezzlement occurs when a person takes another person’s money or property for their own gain. An example of this would be a bank employee stealing money from a customer’s account.

Extortion
Extortion takes place when an individual illegally takes property from someone else by actual or threatened force, fear, or violence.

Forgery
Forgery occurs when someone alters or creates a written object, such as a check or credit card, and attempts to use it to commit a fraud.

Fraud
An individual may accused of committing fraud when they knowingly misrepresent a fact or item in order to gain a benefit for themselves. This may include falsifying a statement or document.

Perjury
Perjury takes place when a person intentionally lies, either in writing or orally while under oath.

Tax Evasion or Tax Fraud
This white collar crime takes place when an individual intentionally fails to claim income or property on their tax return.

The above are examples of the most common white collar crimes punishable by law. If you or someone you love is being accused of committing a white collar crime in Oklahoma, it would be in your best interest to contact a lawyer from AMA Law today. Our attorneys are committed to working closely with each and every client, offering them the best representation possible.