RICO

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Alexandria Racketeering Defense Lawyers

What is RICO?

To prosecute individuals and groups for organized criminal activity, Congress passed the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations (RICO) law, which makes participating in or making profit from organized illegal activity a federal crime. Not only does RICO target organized criminals like members of the Mafia, but it also can charge legitimate businesses and corporations for engaging in criminal action.

If you or your organization is being accused of racketeering in Virginia or Washington D.C., do not wait to let Jenkins Law defend you against serious federal allegations. Our Alexandria racketeering defense attorneys have 26 years of top-notch experience helping clients through the legal process, investigating their cases, determining all available legal defenses, and defending clients at trial or negotiating a favorable deal with investigators and prosecutors.

Call (703) 537-5522 or submit your info online to receive your free consultation with our racketeering defense lawyers in Alexandria today!

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What is Racketeering?

Racketeering is derived from the term “racket,” which means an organized and illegal activity. As we mentioned above, racketeering covers any type of illegal action performed by a group or enterprise.

Types of Racketeering Offenses

According to RICO, it is a federal crime to do any one of the following:

  • Use money acquired or obtained through racketeering to establish or operate any business or organization
  • Conduct racketeering to obtain or operate an interest in any business or organization
  • Perform legal or illegal action of an enterprise by racketeering

What Are the Penalties for Racketeering?

To convict someone under RICO, the prosecution must prove that there was a pattern of racketeering (ongoing criminal activity, rather than only one crime), a criminal enterprise was involved, and the illegal activity affected interstate commerce (e.g. money, good, people from one state to another). 

Each count of racketeering carries a maximum prison sentence of 20 years (or life imprisonment if the predicate crime carries such a penalty), a fine of up to $250,000 or double the amount the defendant gained from the illegal profits, as well as civil lawsuits filed by any alleged victims.

Local Support and Resources for Racketeering Defense in Alexandria

At Jenkins Law, we understand the unique challenges faced by residents and businesses in Alexandria when dealing with racketeering charges. Our deep knowledge of the local legal landscape, combined with our extensive experience, allows us to provide tailored defense strategies that address the specific needs of our clients in this area.

Alexandria is home to several key government entities and resources that play a crucial role in the legal process. The Alexandria Circuit Court and the Alexandria Police Department are integral parts of the judicial system, often involved in investigating and prosecuting racketeering cases. While we do not partner directly with these entities, our familiarity with their procedures and personnel helps us navigate the complexities of your case more effectively.

One of the significant pain points for those accused of racketeering in Alexandria is the potential impact on their personal and professional lives. The stigma associated with such charges can be overwhelming, affecting everything from employment opportunities to personal relationships. The financial burden of legal fees and potential fines can also be daunting. Our team at Jenkins Law is committed to alleviating these concerns by providing robust legal defense and working tirelessly to achieve the best possible outcome for our clients.

We also recognize the importance of community support in these challenging times. Alexandria offers various resources for individuals facing legal issues, including the Alexandria Community Support Center, which assists and guides those in need. Leveraging these local resources can be an essential part of your defense strategy, helping to mitigate the broader impacts of the charges you face.

Our deep-rooted connection to Alexandria means we are not just your legal representatives but your neighbors, committed to standing by you every step of the way. If you or your business is facing racketeering charges, trust Jenkins Law to provide the dedicated and knowledgeable defense you need.

Commonly Asked Questions

In Alexandria, individuals accused of racketeering can utilize several legal defenses, depending on the specifics of their case. The defense team at Bynum & Jenkins Law meticulously investigates the circumstances surrounding the allegations to identify the most effective defense strategy. This may include challenging the evidence's validity, proving a lack of intent to commit the crimes, or demonstrating that the individual's actions did not constitute a pattern of racketeering as defined by RICO. With 26 years of experience, our attorneys are well-equipped to navigate the complexities of federal racketeering charges and work towards a favorable outcome.
A racketeering conviction in Alexandria can lead to severe penalties, including a maximum prison sentence of 20 years per count, or life imprisonment if the underlying crime warrants such a penalty. Additionally, fines can reach up to $250,000 or double the amount of illegal profits gained. Beyond criminal penalties, individuals may also face civil lawsuits from alleged victims seeking damages. The stakes are high, which is why it's crucial to have a knowledgeable defense team like Bynum & Jenkins Law to protect your rights and interests.
Yes, legitimate businesses in Alexandria can be charged with racketeering under RICO if they are found to be engaging in criminal activities. RICO is not limited to stereotypical organized crime groups; it also applies to businesses that use illegal means to conduct their operations. This can include a range of activities from money laundering to fraudulent business practices. Jenkins Law is equipped to defend both individuals and organizations facing such serious federal allegations, ensuring that their legal rights are upheld throughout the process.

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