In July, John Dunlea, the former chief financial officer of a Morristown-based law firm, admitted to embezzling over $1.5 million from his firm. Attorney General Matthew J. Plaktin announced his sentencing late last month, which was handed down by New Jersey Superior Court Judge Stephen J. Taylor. The former CFO was convicted of embezzlement and tax evasion and sentenced him to five years in state prison.

Dunlea, who admitted to the crimes in May 2024, stole the money by paying himself unauthorized compensation and using the firm's funds for personal expenses. He was ordered to pay restitution to the law firm and the state as part of his sentencing.

Accusations of financial mishandling can have a severe impact on both your professional and personal life. If you've been accused of these crimes, we want to hear from you. Call the Lento Law Firm today at (888) 535-3686 or contact us online, and let the Lento Law Firm Criminal Defense Team help defend your rights and get you the best outcome possible.

Know Your Crimes

Duneal's embezzlement and tax fraud crimes are not the only business mishandling charges in New Jersey. Other types of white-collar financial crimes include:

• Credit card fraud—using a card to make unauthorized purchases or withdraws on someone else's personal or business account.
• Embezzlement—misappropriating funds or property left in your stewardship.
• Money Laundering—concealing the origins of illegally obtained money, usually by transferring it through a series of transactions or businesses to make it appear legitimate.
• Identity Theft—using someone else's personal information without permission to commit fraud or other crimes.
• Healthcare and Insurance Fraud—deceptive practices aimed at obtaining unauthorized benefits or payments from healthcare providers or insurance.
• Tax Fraud—falsifying paperwork, tax returns, or using other deceptive practices to avoid paying taxes.
• Check Fraud—writing checks with insufficient funds or using checks known to be fraudulent to deceive the recipient.
• Racketeering—engaging in organized criminal activity (such as extortion, bribery, or fraud), usually as part of a larger criminal enterprise.

If you've been accused of any of these offenses, it's important to speak with a criminal defense attorney immediately. Financial crimes carry steep consequences and may devastate your career and personal life.

Financial Crimes Carry Steep Consequences

The penalties for financial crimes are fact-specific and depend on the charges in your unique situation. Some of these punishments might include:

• Steep fines.
• Mandatory repayment and restitution.
• Legal fees.
• Loss or suspension of a professional license.
• Loss of income.
• Loss of network and employment opportunities.
• Damaged reputation.
• Strained personal relationships.
• Jail time.

In New Jersey, some of these crimes carry first-degree sentences of up to 20 years, which is why it's vital to have an experienced attorney that you trust fighting for your rights.

Have You Been Charged With Financial Crimes in New Jersey?

Even without a conviction, accusations of financial mishandling can negatively impact your career, damage your reputation, and significantly strain your life. Luckily, you don't have to do it alone.

Call the Lento Law Firm today at 1(888) 535-3686 or contact us online, and let the Lento Law Firm Criminal Defense Team help defend your rights during this evolving process.