2025 Session Last amended: 1984 session

§ 609.54 — Embezzlement of Public Funds

Plain-Language Summary

A public official or employee who embezzles or steals public funds faces felony charges. The penalty depends on the amount taken, following the same schedule as theft penalties.

609.54 EMBEZZLEMENT OF PUBLIC FUNDS.

Whoever does an act which constitutes embezzlement under the provisions of Minnesota Constitution, article XI, section 13 may be sentenced as follows:

(1) if the value of the funds so embezzled is $2,500, or less, to imprisonment for not more than five years or to payment of a fine of not more than $10,000, or both; or

(2) if such value is more than $2,500, to imprisonment for not more than ten years or to payment of a fine of not more than $20,000, or both.

History:

1963 c 753 art 1 s 609.54; 1976 c 2 s 172; 1984 c 628 art 3 s 11

History: History: 1963 c 753 art 1 s 609.54; 1976 c 2 s 172; 1984 c 628 art 3 s 11

Practical Notes

This law specifically addresses the theft of government money by people in positions of trust. Penalties are based on the amount stolen and mirror the general theft penalty schedule. Public officials convicted of this crime also face removal from office.

Source: Minnesota Office of the Revisor of Statutes