Oral Molden, a 47-year-old Lima Township man, was arrested on December 22 on numerous charges including false pretenses between $999 and $20,000, and false pretenses over $20,000. Molden had faced embezzlement charges prior, but had that charge dismissed earlier in the year. The new charges are connected to the same case, according to news reports.
Molden also faces charges of malicious use of a telecommunications service and making or permitting a false tax return; he is due back in court on January 3 according to police, and was released on a personal recognizance bond. The previous charge of embezzling $20,000 or more had been dismissed in April due to lack of evidence.
Molden’s wife also faces charges in the case, and was a bookkeeper for A2 Auto Glass, the company police believe the couple illegally took money from over a 3 1/2 year time period. Police believe the Molden’s obtained approximately $250,000 from the company, located in Scio Township. Janice Molden faces multiple charges, including embezzling $100,000 or more and three counts of using a computer to commit a crime.
News reports indicate that Oral Molden performed computer work for A2 Auto Glass. Janice Molden’s trial date is scheduled for January 28, although her public defender, Laura Dudley, indicated in a September court appearance that a plea deal may be in the works.
Michigan embezzlement attorneys know that these types of charges do not have to end with the accused facing prison time or substantial fines. Cases involving employee theft, tax fraud, computer crimes or other embezzlement charges are complex and involved, requiring the expertise and skill of a lawyer.
If you have been charged with embezzlement or any theft-related offense, you must seek the guidance and support of a dedicated Michigan criminal defense lawyer right away, who will work to keep you out of jail and protect your legal rights. You are innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt; a skilled attorney will work to have the charges against you dismissed or reduced so that you can avoid the harshest penalties.