What Happens If You Are Accused of Employee Theft in Minnesota?

Being accused of employee theft in Minnesota might be more serious than you think, and a good lawyer can make a difference in your reputation.

Employers may pursue both criminal charges and civil penalties if they believe a worker has stolen money, property, or services. These cases can harm not only your record but also your reputation, employment prospects, and future opportunities.

This blog explains what counts as employee theft, the penalties under Minnesota law, and what you should do if you face such allegations.

What Counts as Employee Theft in Minnesota?

Employee theft includes any act of stealing from an employer. This could involve:

• Taking cash or goods from the workplace 
• Unauthorized use of a company credit card 
• Fraudulent expense reports 
• Stealing trade secrets or confidential information 
• Using company property for personal gain 

In Minnesota, employee theft is generally prosecuted under the state’s theft statute Minnesota Statutes § 609.52.

How Serious Are the Penalties?

The penalties for employee theft depend on the value of the property or money taken:

• Under $500: Misdemeanor, punishable by up to 90 days in jail and a $1,000 fine. 
• $500 to $1,000: Gross misdemeanor, punishable by up to one year in jail and a $3,000 fine. 
• $1,000 to $35,000: Felonía, with penalties ranging from up to 5 years in prison and a $10,000 fine. 
• Over $35,000: Felonía, with penalties of up to 20 years in prison and a $100,000 fine.

Beyond criminal penalties, an employer may also sue for civil damages, which can include repayment and additional penalties.

Common Employer Actions After an Accusation

If accused of employee theft, you may face:

• Immediate termination of employment 
• Internal investigation by HR or corporate security 
• Referral to law enforcement for criminal charges 
• Civil lawsuit seeking financial recovery

Even if charges are later dismissed, the accusation itself can damage your reputation.

Defenses to Employee Theft Charges

Not every accusation is supported by evidence. Possible defenses include:

• Mistaken identity (someone else was responsible) 
• Lack of intent (you did not knowingly or willfully steal) 
• Permission or misunderstanding (you had approval to use or take the property) 
• Insufficient evidence (employer cannot prove the theft occurred)

A skilled defense lawyer can examine the evidence and build a strategy tailored to your situation.

What Should You Do If Accused?

If you are accused of employee theft in Minnesota:

1. Do not admit guilt or make statements without legal representation. 
2. Consult with a criminal defense attorney immediately. 
3. Protect your rights during employer investigations. 
4. Gather evidence that may prove your innocence, such as emails or receipts.

Why You Need a Minnesota Criminal Defense Lawyer

Employee theft accusations can follow you for years, affecting your career and personal life. Having an experienced Minnesota defense lawyer ensures you understand the charges, know your options, and fight for the best possible outcome.

At Martine Law, we handle theft and workplace-related criminal cases with discretion and strong defense strategies designed to protect your future.

Key Takeaways

• Employee theft in Minnesota is taken seriously and can lead to criminal charges and civil lawsuits. 
• Penalties depend on the value of the stolen property, ranging from misdemeanors to felonías with prison time. 
• Employers often terminate workers and involve law enforcement in these cases. 
• Strong legal defense can challenge intent, evidence, or the validity of the accusations. 

Accused of employee theft? Contact Martine Law today to schedule a confidential consultation. We are here to protect your rights and your future.