Racketeering and the RICO Act

Racketeering is a serious criminal charge that is typically tacked on to criminal cases that are believed to be part of an organized crime scheme. This offense can be added to a series of charges that attempt to connect an individual to a criminal enterprise. Typically racketeering accompanies charges for fraud, extortion, or drug crimes, and the charge may be levied against anyone suspected of committing a crime for financial gain.

If you are suspected of racketeering, the West Palm Beach criminal defense lawyers of Eric N. Klein & Associates, P.A., are committed to helping you defend your case. Call us today at 561-353-2800/

The RICO Act

The Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations (RICO) Act is a federal law that allows criminal penalties to be increased for offenders who are found to be acting as part of an active criminal organization. Acts that qualify as racketeering activity include:

• Fraud, embezzlement, extortion, or bribery
• Robbery or theft
• Counterfeiting
• Money laundering
• Drug trafficking
• Human trafficking
• Gambling
• Murder
• Acts of terrorism

A person suspected of racketeering may find himself or herself facing charges at both the state and federal levels. To be charged under the RICO Act, the suspect must display a pattern of racketeering activity, which is defined as committing two acts of racketeering activity within a 10 year period.

Charges and Penalties

Under Florida law, racketeering is classified as a first degree felony, which is punishable by up to 30 years in prison. A federal conviction can lead to 10 or more years in prison. Because racketeering is often charged along with several other offenses, a defendant who is convicted on multiple counts may face life in prison. Other penalties include:

• Life registration as a felon
• Up to $10,000 in fines for a state conviction
• A fine of up to 3 times the gross value of criminal funds obtained
• Restitution payments to victims of the racketeering activity
• A civil lawsuit initiated by private individuals affected by the defendant’s criminal activity

Clearly a racketeering conviction can affect your life for years to come and may even lead to life in prison. If you have been charged with racketeering or other offenses related to organized crime, consider consulting with a West Palm Beach criminal attorney immediately.

Contact Us

For more information on defending against state and federal racketeering charges, don’t hesitate to contact the West Palm Beach criminal defense attorneys of Eric N. Klein & Associates, P.A., today at 561-353-2800.