St. Louis Criminal Law Blog

When a person is accused of a crime, it may be easy to immediately assume his or her guilt. However, in all cases, a person is presumed innocent unless and until sufficient evidence is provided in court to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. Unfortunately, those who face criminal charges may be unaware of their legal options. In fact, a Missouri woman recently indicted on fraud charges is likely considering how to respond to the allegations.

The case involves a 32-year-old woman. She reportedly served as the treasurer of a community in Missouri. Authorities claim that the woman stole approximately $400,000 from the city from Nov. 2015 to Oct. 2018. They say she did this by writing herself 90 checks that she deposited in her personal banking account in addition to writing checks to businesses and wiring money. The money, according to authorities, was used to pay for personal purchases, such as clothing and car payments.

Running a business can be a difficult enterprise, especially when that business involves the care of livestock. Often, unexpected circumstances can arise that could negatively impact the health of the animals, ultimately threatening the success of the business. Unfortunately, police claim that money allegedly owed in a business arrangement involving livestock is at the center of a case that led to murder charges against a man in Missouri. 

The defendant in the case reportedly was involved in a business arrangement in which he supposed to raise 131 calves owned by two brothers and another man. However, reports indicate that the calves became sick shortly after they arrived at the defendant's farm, and many of them died. Ultimately, only 35 of the calves were reportedly returned to the owners.

Cocaine is illegal across the United States, but state laws determine the legal consequences of being found guilty of possessing cocaine. Those accused of possessing cocaine in Missouri could face serious legal consequences that could change the course of their entire life. This is why those accused should take action to aggressively defend themselves.

If you have been accused of possessing cocaine in Missouri, start by gaining a strong understanding of Missouri law, and learning about the possible defense options for you.

Many people in Missouri have made mistakes that resulted in criminal charges. Upon their conviction, they completed their punishment as required by law and want nothing more than to put their past behind them and continue with their lives. Unfortunately, without seeking an expungement, many people may struggle to do so. 

In fact, many people who have been convicted of a crime have found that record of their conviction can be prohibitive years later. Often, questions regarding criminal history arise as part of the job interview or loan application process, often preventing success. Many people have found that, even a conviction of a minor misdemeanor can cost them their dream job or home years later. However, those who were convicted of a misdemeanor and some felonies -- such as non-sexual and non-violent crimes -- could now qualify for expungement.