Solona Beach Woman Facing Felony Embezzlement Charges

44-year-old Kristin Davis, a Solana Beach executive who owned and ran Paradigm Management Group, is facing criminal charges in connection with allegedly embezzling about $900,000 from a homeowners association. Paradigm Management Group managed the Simi Valley HOA Big Sky in 2008 and 2009, according to a statement made by the Ventura County Sheriff’s Department on Monday September 9.

Davis closed down Paradigm shortly after the thefts were revealed in 2009, and later opened MK Management. A dozen felony counts have been filed against Davis by Ventura County prosecutors, including insurance fraud and grand theft.

Melissa Hoff, former chief financial officer at Paradigm, also faces charges including conspiracy and grand theft, according to a news article at U-T San Diego. The two women allegedly embezzled over $900,000 over a 1 1/2 year time period from the community homeowners’ association. News reports indicate that detectives continue to investigate other associations which Davis managed and which may have lost money under her management. Additional charges may be forthcoming according to the San Diego Reader.

Most people think of a felony crime as one that involves violence or is particularly heinous, such as armed robbery or kidnapping. Los Angeles criminal defense attorneys know that there are many crimes involving financial matters which may be charged as a felony, including embezzlement. Felony crimes are typically punished more harshly than those classified as misdemeanors; penalties may include substantial fines, prison time, and more. When convicted of a felony offense such as identity theft, mail fraud, or embezzlement, not only do those convicted face severe punishment, often times their reputation and careers are ruined.

Simply put, the stakes are high for individuals accused of a financial crime, particularly when charged as a felony. However, every person charged with any criminal offense, no matter whether financially-related or otherwise, is innocent until proven guilty. It is critical to obtain the legal support and guidance of a seasoned criminal defense lawyer who will review your case and work with you to determine the best course of legal action.