What is RICO?



RICO is named after The Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act.

The act was initially created to stop the “mob” spreading crime and corruption across the country.

If you are accused of committing a RICO crime, you need competent legal help immediately.

Depending on the charges against you, you may be facing several years in a federal prison as well as substantial fines.

Federal RICO act

Established in 1970, the Federal RICO act was developed to eliminate organized crime in the United States.

Once passed, the law helped close a perceived loophole that would have excluded someone from criminal liability if they instructed another person to commit a crime.

What does the law require for a RICO charge?

Before the prosecution can charge you with a RICO offense, your behavior must meet certain criteria.

First you must engage in a pattern of racketeering activity.

This means you must commit at least two predicate racketeering crimes within 10 years.

Any of the 35 designated offenses constitute racketeering.

This includes gambling, murder, kidnapping, arson, drug dealing, bribery, mail fraud, and wire fraud. Lastly,

you must be part of an “enterprise” — a crime family, street gang, drug cartel, corporation, political party, etc.

Common types of RICO cases

To violate RICO, you must engage in a pattern of racketeering activity in connection to an enterprise.

Some of the most common types of RICO cases include:

These are serious offenses that carry stiff penalties.

Depending on the specifics of your case, a conviction could mean a decade or more behind bars.

If you are arrested for any type of RICO offense, consult with an experienced federal criminal defense attorney as soon as possible.

RICO Penalties

RICO violations carry life-changing penalties to deter people from engaging in organized crime:

      • Imprisonment of 20 years+
      • A fine of up to twice the defendant’s illegal profits
      • Forfeiture of any assets earned or maintained through racketeering
      • Civil suits by private citizens that suffer damages

A legal professional can help you understand the law and build a strong RICO defense.

Contact a skilled Miami RICO defense lawyer today

Located in Miami Lakes, the Law Office of Nayib Hassan, P.A., is dedicated to protecting the rights of Florida residents accused of bribery, extortion, drug dealing, and other RICO related offenses.

To discuss your case with an experienced Miami RICO defense lawyer, call (305) 403-7323 or contact us online.

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