When people in Connecticut are charged with a crime, they are often unsure of their legal options. As such, many people may be unable to recognize a violation of their rights and take appropriate action should they be treated unlawfully. In fact, one man may be considering his criminal defense following his recent arrest.
The 44-year-old man was arrested on a day in early May. According to reports, he faces charges of larceny by defrauding a public community and unemployment compensation fraud. At issue are funds that he allegedly received between July and Oct. 2016.
Officials claim that the man received almost $10,000 in unemployment benefits during that time period. However, reports indicate that he was actually employed at a furniture company. His arrest by inspectors from the Unemployment Compensation Fraud Unit followed a complaint made by the Connecticut Department of Labor. He has since been released on bond.
Unfortunately, a conviction of the charges he faces could have serious consequences, potentially including 20 years in prison and a significant fine. Because of the seriousness of the charges against him, the man is likely working alongside an experienced criminal defense attorney. Such a professional can ensure that he has all the necessary information about his case, allowing him to make informed decisions, including whether to accept a plea deal — if offered — or fight the charges in court. Under certain circumstances, a defendant who recognizes that the evidence appears to be substantial will plead guilty (often to lesser charges) because he or she accepts that the risk of being convicted is substantial.
Source: Norwich, CT Patch, “Norwich Man Accused Of Unemployment Compensation Fraud“, Alfred Branch, May 4, 2018