RICO/Racketeering Laws
The Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations (RICO) Act is a federal law that was enacted in 1970 as part of the Organized Crime Control Act. The RICO Act allows for an individual to be charged with racketeering if they were a part of an enterprise that committed certain crimes that allowed them to earn money illegally, including embezzlement, bribery, kidnapping, terrorism, and money laundering.
An individual charged federally with RICO crimes will have their property seized and forfeit to the United States and can face up to 20 years in prison. However, RICO charges often involve multiple counts and other associated crimes which can find an offender facing a lifetime behind bars.
In Arizona, racketeering charges are detailed under state statute, with offenses being class 2 or class 3 felonies. You can be charged with racketeering in Arizona if it is alleged that you have illegal control over an enterprise or are otherwise committing crimes for financial gain. For further information, read our Arizona racketeering article.
If you are suspected of racketeering in Arizona, it possible to be charged at the state level as well as federally under RICO charges if your crimes violated both the Arizona statute and federal code. Generally, racketeering under United States federal law involves crimes that involve foreign or interstate commerce. Federal RICO laws can be read here.
If you have been charged with racketeering at either the state or federal level, it is imperative to seek legal representation right away.
RIDEOUT LAW GROUP
With offices in Lake Havasu City and Scottsdale, our firm serves the entire state of Arizona, with a particular focus on criminal defense, family law, and juvenile cases.
Our goal is for the best outcome for your criminal case, which can include:
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At Rideout Law Group, our attorneys are able to expertly examine the evidence in your case to provide a strong strategy for argument that leads to an outcome that is most favorable to you. We have experience in all types of criminal cases for both adults and juveniles, with positive outcomes both in plea negotiations as well as jury trial settings.
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