How The RICO Act Impacts Everyday People
The Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations (RICO) Act, Title 18, has been around since 1970.
It was initially passed to eliminate organized crime on the nation’s economy. But it is now commonly used for a wide variety of federal charges involving fraud or white collar crimes.
Instead of a “godfather” or “drug kingpin,” CEOs of corporations, controlling shareholders, trustees to an estate, politicians or leaders of a political protest group are charged under the RICO Act.
Over Three Decades Of Experience Defending Against RICO Charges In Detroit
I am criminal defense attorney who has earned a reputation as a skillful Detroit criminal defense lawyer who has established a thorough knowledge of the federal justice system and RICO and white collar offenses in both state and federal courts.
Case-In-Point
Many people in Detroit and across the state of Michigan remember the Kwame Kilpatrick case. The former mayor of Detroit faced corruption charges that alleged he took bribes and kickbacks.
I served as co-counsel for the former mayor’s friend and fellow defendant, Bobby Ferguson. I was featured in several media outlets and was interviewed on TV regarding the RICO Act and related offenses.
My Reputation
My reputation as a defense lawyer is that I’m aggressive based on my relentless cross-examinations. At the same time, my commonsense arguments often resonate with jurors and lead to victory in trial.
I See Opportunity Where Others See Challenges
As an ex-Marine, I am afraid of nothing. This kind of tenacity and willingness to go all-in with my clients makes me the ideal trial lawyer for RICO charges. Flimsy coincidences and faulty conspiracy charges will be dispatched. I will use several other effective defenses based on experience gained from handling hundreds of federal cases.
What Are The Penalties For A RICO Conviction?
A RICO charge is a very serious matter. If you are facing charges, you need an experienced federal criminal defense lawyer on your side immediately. The penalties for a conviction may include:
- A prison sentence from 20 years to life, depending on the details of the case
- Court-ordered restitution to the victims, who may also sue for triple damages
- Forfeiting anything you obtained from the offense such as money and other assets
- Fines that can reach up to double the amount of anything gained from the offense or a fine up to $250,000
RICO cases are tough, but there are defense strategies I can employ. My job is to protect your constitutional rights and ensure that you are not overcharged for the offense.
How Does The RICO Act Impact Individuals And Businesses?
The RICO Act allows prosecutors to charge all people associated with a corruption organization. Since its inception, it has been broadened to include not just mob organizations, but drug cartels, gangs and corporations.
With the broad nature of RICO laws, sometimes RICO cases end up targeting innocent people and legitimate organizations. If you are in this situation, you need a federal criminal defense lawyer right away to protect your rights, keep you out of prison and/or prevent you from losing your business. Don’t delay; there is no time to waste in these complex federal cases.
Charged With A RICO Violation? Contact My Office Today.
Convictions for RICO and related charges and serious. If you want to protect your future and your livelihood, contact me today. We can discuss my history of successful results and how I can help protect your rights and liberties.
Call 313-512-6174 or contact me online. I offer free consultations.