MARQUETTE -- Some call it the crime of opportunity, but embezzlement is also known as a white collar crime.
It typically occurs when an employee is stealing money from the company they work for. So how can you tell if this is happening in your business? Detective Sergeant Steven Snoweart says one way to tell is if they start getting agitated.
"They don't want their employee to look at it or question them. They become agitated as far as even wanting to give up that control or show what's going on is usually a pretty good sign," said Snoweart.
He also says it's usually a person you trust. So what can you do to protect your business?
Matt Weise, Marquette County Prosecutor, says you should have more than one person managing finances as a safeguard.
"If you are a nonprofit, make sure your accounting firm or accountant does an annual audit to make sure there aren't any discrepancies with the amount of money that comes in and the amount that goes out," said Weise.
If caught, you can expect a serious punishment. For stealing more than a $1,000, you will face a felony charge and jail time.
Officials say embezzlers often steal because they have a gambling problem. If you suspect someone's embezzling, don't hesitate; call the authorities for an investigation.
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