Stretch said:
That's a bit harsh. He never took anything from his employer, they made the mistake and gave it to him.
He will have to pay it back though, but at his leisure. It was their mistake and I can't see how they're in a position to complain about him paying it back very slowly.
It is theft in the same way that if a bank puts money in your account that isn't yours you can be done for theft.
People have been in the past and will be in the future.
If this is fair or not is another discussion - it is however the law.
This company have written to him and requested he pay the money back.
He has two options pay or not pay.
If he pays then everything gets sorted out, everything remains out of court and I expect everyone (except your mate) will be happy.
If he decides to go the not pay route he risks the police getting involved, solicitors, court appearances, court costs (because he will be found guilty) etc.
I know which I would choose.