Engaging in Organized Crime

East Texas Organized Crime Defense Attorneys

Organized crime is a serious criminal offense that involves multiple parties working together for a common goal. These groups are typically involved in illegal activities such as drug trafficking, money laundering, and other white collar crimes. Organized crime is also referred to as racketeering. Organized crime is a federal offense and is aggressively prosecuted by the government. If you have been charged with engaging in organized crime, it is essential to speak with an experienced defense attorney as soon as possible.

For more information about our services, call (903) 408-3332 to schedule a consultation with a Tyler criminal defense lawyer.

What is Considered Organized Crime?

Organized crime refers to a group of individuals who work together to commit illegal activities. The group can be made up of any number of members, and the crimes committed can range from drug trafficking to money laundering. The primary purpose of organized crime is to make a profit from criminal activities.

Organized crime groups can be involved in a wide range of criminal activities, including:

• Drug trafficking
• Money laundering
• Extortion
• Blackmail
• Illegal gambling
• Prostitution
• Human trafficking

These groups are typically highly organized and have a hierarchy of members. The members of the group each have a specific role and are expected to carry out their duties. The group may also have a set of rules that members are expected to follow. If a member fails to adhere to the rules, they may face punishment.

What is Racketeering?

Racketeering refers to a specific type of organized crime and is a violation of the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations (RICO) Act. Under RICO, it is illegal to be involved in racketeering activities. Racketeering is defined as engaging in a pattern of criminal activity with a group of people. The group involved in the criminal activity is referred to as a racket.

Like organized crime, racketeering is also a federal offense. Racketeering charges can be brought against an individual if they are involved in at least two different criminal activities within a ten-year period. The criminal activities must also be related in some way.

For example, if an individual is involved in a drug trafficking operation and is also involved in an illegal gambling operation, they could be charged with racketeering. The activities are related because both crimes involve making a profit from illegal activities. In addition to engaging in a pattern of criminal activity, the individual must also be associated with an enterprise.

Under RICO, an enterprise is defined as any legal entity, such as a company or corporation, as well as any group of people who are associated with one another. The enterprise can be a legitimate business or an illegal operation. If an individual is found guilty of racketeering, they could face up to 20 years in prison.

How is Organized Crime Prosecuted?

Organized crime is a federal offense and is aggressively prosecuted by the government. Federal prosecutors will work diligently to gather evidence against those who they believe are involved in organized crime. The government will often conduct lengthy investigations into the alleged criminal activities.

If you are under investigation for organized crime, it is crucial to exercise your right to remain silent and obtain legal representation. You do not have to answer any questions from law enforcement, and you should not speak about the case without your lawyer present. Anything you say can and will be used against you in court.

Penalties for Engaging in Organized Crime

Engaging in organized crime is a serious offense and carries harsh penalties. If an individual is convicted of engaging in organized crime, they could face up to 20 years in prison. The specific penalties will depend on the nature and extent of the criminal activities.

It is also important to note that an individual can be charged with other crimes in addition to engaging in organized crime. If the group is involved in drug trafficking, for example, an individual could also be charged with drug trafficking. The penalties for these additional crimes will also apply.

Defending Against Organized Crime Charges

If you have been charged with engaging in organized crime, it is essential to speak with an experienced defense attorney as soon as possible. An attorney can review the evidence against you and help you determine the best defense strategy. There are several defenses that your lawyer may use to fight the charges, including:

• You were not involved in the criminal activities
• You did not know the group was engaged in criminal activities
• The group does not meet the legal definition of an organized crime group
• Law enforcement used illegal tactics to obtain evidence
• The evidence against you is not sufficient

If you are under investigation for organized crime, it is crucial to obtain legal representation as soon as possible. A lawyer can help you navigate the legal process and work to protect your rights and your future.

Get the Legal Help You Need Today

If you are facing charges for engaging in organized crime, it is crucial to speak with an experienced defense attorney as soon as possible. At Rollings Wood & Pace, our criminal defense lawyers have extensive experience handling complex criminal cases. We are committed to helping our clients obtain the best possible outcome in their cases and will fight aggressively to have the charges against you reduced or dismissed.

Call (903) 408-3332 to schedule a consultation with a Tyler criminal defense attorney.