According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, racketeering is described as obtaining money by using an illegal enterprise. This can be done by one person or an organized crime ring by running an illegal business or embezzling funds through a legitimate company. The Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act was passed to combat organized crime, and it can have far-reaching effects. Anyone in Michigan accused of committing a RICO violation may face serious consequences if he or she is ultimately convicted.
Why is a RICO violation such a big deal? This type of crime generally affects a lot of people and can affect private institutions as well. The losses can be significant, which means it may take a long time for victims to recover. RICO violations come in many forms. Some of the most common are:
- Counterfeiting
- Drug trafficking
- Weapons trafficking
- Illegal gambling
- Extortion
- Prostitution rings
- Embezzlement
- Money Laundering
Thanks to the RICO Act, which was passed in 1978, prosecuting attorneys no longer have to prove that the individual accused of racketeering personally committed the crime. They only need to prove that he or she manages or owns an organization that regularly performs illegal activities. In other words, it made it easier to link people to these crimes regardless of their actual level of involvement. Knowing this, it may make Michigan residents accused of this type of crime feel they are in a hopeless situation.
When accused of committing a RICO violation, it is easy to feel lost. It is easy to convince oneself to give in and not fight. While it is impossible to guarantee that one’s case will move in a positive direction, know that with the right help in one’s corner, everything that can be done to achieve the best outcome possible will be.
