Florida RICO Attorney
Florida’s Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organization (RICO) Act largely mirrors the federal legislation of the same name. Both of these Acts target people that engage in the illegal acquisition of funds, which is also known as racketeering. Racketeering involves a number of criminal offenses, all of which have serious penalties for those convicted. If you are facing charges related to racketeering, a Florida RICO attorney can defend against them and give you the best chance of a positive outcome.
Florida’s RICO Laws
RICO laws in Florida prohibit people from engaging in certain activities. Under the law, it is unlawful for any person to:
- Acquire an enterprise or establishment using proceeds from illegal activity
- Control or maintain an enterprise or property that was acquired through illegal means
- Take an employment position to participate in racketeering or corrupt activities
- Attempt or conspire to take part in racketeering activity
A person breaks these laws when they engage in certain types of criminal activity. Unfortunately, a person may face charges even when they are innocent.
Common RICO Violations
There are many racketeering activities that could place someone in violation of the law. The most common of these include:
- Bribery: Bribery occurs when someone offers, receives, or gives something of value to a public official with the intent to influence their decisions.
- Wire and mail fraud: Wire and mail fraud involves using electronic devices or the United States Post Office to defraud someone of property or money.
- Extortion: Extortion occurs when a person threatens someone else in order to obtain property or money from them.
- Embezzlement: Embezzlement occurs when someone withholds certain types of funds in order to use them for their own personal purpose.
- Securities fraud: Also known as stock fraud, securities fraud occurs when someone influences the decision of investors using false information or deceptive tactics.
When a person is accused of committing any of the above offenses, they may face both criminal and civil penalties.
Penalties for a RICO Violation
The consequences of a RICO violation will depend on the nature and scale of the racketeering activity. Sometimes though, the criminal punishments are quite serious. One charge could result in a person being sentenced to life in prison, and paying hundreds of thousands in fines.
Criminal penalties are not the only consequences a person may face after a RICO violation. Florida lawmakers have also included a provision that anyone harmed by racketeering activity can hold the responsible parties liable for paying damages. Florida’s RICO laws also allow a person’s property to be seized when they commit a RICO violation that causes harm to another party.
Call Our RICO Lawyers in Florida Today
If you have been accused of a RICO violation, you need the help of a Florida RICO lawyer that can defend against them. At Pike & Lustig, LLP, we have the necessary experience these cases require. We will advise you of your legal options, ensure your rights are upheld, and build a solid case to give you the best chance of a favorable outcome. Call us today at 561-291-8298 or fill out our online form to schedule a meeting with one of our attorneys.