The RICO statute gives law enforcement very strong tools to punish organizations that engage in alleged systematic patterns of corruption. That includes the ability to freeze assets before any charge is filed or an arrest is made. Activities that might qualify a group for a RICO charge include illegal collection of debt through intimidation and other crimes that require organization. The government has wide latitude in prosecuting RICO charges, because anyone who derives any benefit, however small, from racketeering activities may be prosecuted. That means even someone who is only peripherally involved with a crime can be caught up in the prosecutors' net. If you're part of a RICO charge for an organization you aren't really a part of -- or were not aware of -- you should get help right away from a Miami racketeering and RICO criminal defense attorney.

RICO laws originated in Mafia prosecutions. RICO laws were created, in part, to harshly punish Mafia members because many other charges against them “didn’t stick.” Unfortunately, prosecutors often go past legislative intent and use the RICO statute to unduly punish many first-time offenders. An experienced Miami racketeering and RICO criminal defense attorney can help you approach these serious charges.

The Florida RICO Act makes it illegal:

1. For any person who has with criminal intent received any proceeds derived, directly or indirectly, from a pattern of racketeering activity or through the collection of an unlawful debt to use or invest, whether directly or indirectly, any part of such proceeds, or the proceeds derived from the investment or use thereof, in the acquisition of any title to, or any right, interest, or equity in, real property or in the establishment or operation of any enterprise.
2. For any person, through a pattern of racketeering activity or through the collection of an unlawful debt, to acquire or maintain, directly or indirectly, any interest in or control of any enterprise or real property.
3. For any person employed by, or associated with, any enterprise to conduct or participate, directly or indirectly, in such enterprise through a pattern of racketeering activity or the collection of an unlawful debt.
4. For any person to conspire or endeavor to violate any of the provisions of subsection (1), subsection (2), or subsection (3).

If you believe you're being prosecuted under these laws incorrectly, you should talk to a Fort Lauderdale racketeering and RICO criminal defense attorney as soon as possible.

David S. Seltzer is a Miami racketeering and RICO criminal defense attorney representing clients throughout South Florida. My years of experience as a former prosecutor have provided me with the insight as to how a prosecutor deals with your case. Let me help advise you on RICO laws and how to navigate a RICO trial. I offer free, confidential consultations to all potential clients, 24 hours a day and seven days a week. Call 305-444-1565 today or contact me online for a FREE, CONFIDENTIAL CONSULTATION.