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What Is A RICO Charge?

by | Dec 22, 2020 | Criminal Defense, Federal Crimes, Felonies, White Collar Crimes

What Does RICO Stand For?

RICO stands for the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act, which was passed in 1970 to combat organized crime in the United States. Under RICO, it is unlawful for anyone employed by or associated with any enterprise engaged in interstate or foreign commerce to conduct or participate in the enterprise’s affairs through a pattern of racketeering activity or collection of unlawful debt. “Enterprise” includes any individual, partnership, corporation, association, or other legal entity, as well as any union or group of associated individuals.

Have you been arrested for violating the RICO act? Call Peter Barrett today at (214) 307-8667 or contact us online to start your defense!

What Racketeering Offenses Does The RICO Act Prohibit?

The RICO act prohibits a total of 35 state and federal racketeering offenses including but not limited to:

  • Murder
  • Kidnapping
  • Gambling
  • Robbery
  • Bribery
  • Extortion
  • Counterfeiting
  • Embezzlement of union funds
  • Mail fraud
  • Wire fraud
  • Money laundering
  • Obstruction of justice
  • Prostitution

What Must Be Proven To Convict A RICO Defendant?

The RICO Act allows the federal government to prosecute various types of racketeering activity connected to an enterprise. Prior to the passing of the RICO Act, federal prosecutors had to try suspects of the same illicit enterprise individually rather than collectively, but after the Act passed, prosecutors could try all suspected RICO violators at once. To convict one or more defendants facing RICO charges, prosecutors have the burden of proving the following elements beyond a reasonable doubt:

  • An enterprise existed
  • The enterprise affected interstate commerce
  • The defendant was associated with or employed by the enterprise
  • The defendant engaged in a pattern of racketeering activity
  • The defendant conducted or participated in the enterprise’s conduct by committing at least two acts of racketeering activity

If convicted of violating the RICO Act, you will face federal RICO charges punishable by thousands of dollars in fines and up to 20 years in federal prison. You may also have to return all illegal profits and property obtained through racketeering. Not to mention, your consequences may not only account for RICO violations but also the specific pattern of crimes committed. For instance, if the pattern of criminal activity includes kidnapping, you may face both state and federal penalties.

Let Us Fight For You

For the past 25+ years, Attorney Peter Barrett has helped countless clients in Dallas resolve their federal charges by building custom defense strategies tailored to their unique circumstances. He understands that no two cases are the same, therefore the defense strategies shouldn’t be, either. That’s why you can count on us to go the extra mile to ensure your case can withstand even the most aggressive prosecutorial tactics.

Contact Peter Barrett today for a consultation!