Racketeering charges were originally designed to prosecute crime bosses for prostituting women, coordinating high-stakes gambling, as well as smuggling and selling drugs.
However, racketeering law has significantly evolved since its inception. Today, not only are high level crime bosses charged with racketeering, but ordinary individuals are as well.
Those who find themselves charged with racketeering face severe criminal penalties, but it is important to remember that they are not criminals just because they have been charged with a crime. Experienced criminal defense attorneys can protect your rights, but it is important to get an honest case analysis as soon as possible to discuss your rights and potential legal options.
Definition and Brief History of Racketeering
Racketeering, at its most basic level, is when criminals profit from a legitimate business endeavor or engage in an illegal scheme to make a profit.
A well-known historical example of racketeering occurred during the prohibition era. Organizations bootlegged and sold alcohol to local businesses and individuals for a substantial profit.
As these groups expanded to other activities, Congress passed legislation so law enforcement could confiscate a group's assets to make financing their activities far more difficult and prosecute those with direct ties to the organization.
Current Racketeering Legislation: RICO
In 1970, roughly 40 years after the prohibition era, Congress passed the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organization Act as part of the Organized Crime Control Act. This legislation significantly broadened the scope of racketeering charges making it easier for prosecutors to charge ordinary individuals with complex crimes. As a result, American courts have seen a drastic increase of racketeering cases against lower level offenders and street gang members.
RICO is a very complex statute and racketeering is a very serious charge. As a result, representation from a qualified criminal defense attorney can be the determining factor in whether a case results in dismissal, a successful plea bargain or conviction. Don't delay in protecting your rights - speak with a racketeering defense attorney today.
