What You Should Know About Being Investigated for Theft at Work

Workplace theft investigations in Pennsylvania can quickly escalate from internal discipline to criminal charges, including misdemeanor or felony theft. If you’re in Philadelphia or anywhere in the state, here’s what you need to know to protect your rights and reputation.

Types of Workplace Theft That Lead to Criminal Charges

Employers may accuse workers of theft for a wide range of actions, including:

• Stealing cash from a register or vault

• Taking merchandise or equipment

• Falsifying timesheets or payroll entries

• Using a company credit card for personal expenses

• Stealing customer or employee data

• Embezzlement or misappropriation of funds (especially in finance roles)

• Unauthorized discounts or refunds (often in retail)

Even minor accusations—like “borrowing” supplies or using a work vehicle for personal use—can be misinterpreted and lead to disciplinary action or arrest.

How Theft Investigations Usually Begin

Employers may launch an internal investigation based on:

• Surveillance footage

• Inventory discrepancies

• Reports from coworkers or managers

• Irregular accounting records

• Customer complaints

• Digital activity logs or email monitoring

You may not even know you’re being investigated until:

• HR or management asks to meet “just to talk”

• You’re asked to sign a written statement

• You’re placed on administrative leave

• You’re confronted with alleged evidence

• Law enforcement contacts you for questioning

Never assume it’s “just a company matter”—what starts as an HR investigation can turn into criminal charges fast.

What You Should—and Shouldn’t—Do

If you believe you’re being investigated or questioned about theft at work:

✅ Remain calm and professional
✅ Ask for details before answering questions
✅ Avoid making verbal or written statements without legal advice
✅ Consult a criminal defense attorney immediately
✅ Preserve any emails, timecards, or other documents that support your side

❌ Do not admit to anything, even casually
❌ Do not lie, destroy records, or try to “fix” the issue
❌ Do not assume HR is on your side—they’re protecting the company
❌ Do not talk to coworkers about the situation

Statements made during workplace investigations may be shared with the police and used as evidence in court.

What Happens If Charges Are Filed?

In Pennsylvania, theft charges are based on the value of the property allegedly stolen:

• Under $50 – Third-degree misdemeanor

• $50–$199 – Second-degree misdemeanor

• $200–$1,999 – First-degree misdemeanor

• $2,000 or more – Third-degree felony

• Theft from employer (if proven) – May result in harsher penalties, especially for breach of trust or position of authority

If convicted, you could face jail time, restitution payments, probation, and a permanent criminal record—which can ruin future job prospects.

How a Criminal Defense Attorney Can Help

An experienced defense attorney can:

✅ Evaluate the strength of the evidence
✅ Challenge surveillance footage or witness credibility
✅ Negotiate to avoid formal charges (pre-arrest resolution)
✅ Push for restitution in exchange for withdrawal of charges
✅ Fight for ARD or diversion if eligible (first-time offender)
✅ Prepare a strong defense if the case goes to trial

In many cases, there may be a misunderstanding, lack of intent, or insufficient proof of wrongdoing.

Can You Be Fired Even Without Criminal Charges?

Yes. In Pennsylvania, most employment is at-will, meaning your employer can terminate you for any reason that is not discriminatory—even if you’re never formally charged. That said, a criminal defense lawyer can help minimize damage to your reputation and coordinate with employment attorneys if needed.

📞 Contact Mark D. Hauser, Criminal Defense Attorney, Today

Workplace theft allegations can destroy your career and lead to criminal charges if not handled properly. With over 30 years of experience defending clients across Philadelphia and Pennsylvania, Mark D. Hauser knows how to protect your record, your freedom, and your future.

📞 Contact Mark D. Hauser, criminal defense attorney, today for a confidential case evaluation.