Have you or someone you know been charged with organized fraud? If so, then you need to understand what you’ve been charged with and what your best course of action is in defending yourself against the charges.
Organized fraud is defined as “the intentional misrepresentation or concealment of information in order to deceive or mislead” and is a very serious crime that can result in extremely stiff penalties for those convicted.
There are many things that can be classified as fraud, but one example of organized fraud is when a person or persons set up a fake charity and mislead donors in an effort to get people to contribute to a cause, but in reality, the money is being used for other purposes.
To learn more about how Miami Criminal Lawyer Evan Hoffman and The Hoffman Firm can help you, just pick up the phone and dial (305) 928-1669 or contact us online for a FREE consultation.
For instance, say two individuals conspire together and set up a “charity” which they advertise will provide food, clothing and job training for homeless people in Miami. But instead of using the money for helping the homeless, they use the money for personal gain, then that would be a prime case for charges of fraud. But they would not necessarily have to use all the money for personal profit. In fact, they may actually have a legitimate charity that helps the homeless.
But if they use a portion of the money in a manner other than what they advertised to their donors, then they still may be charged as having committed fraud. Another example of organized fraud could be counterfeiting money or legal documents, licenses, ID cards, passports, etc.
Organized Fraud is a serious offense and is prosecuted as a felony under Florida law. In addition, it can be prosecuted as a federal Felony if “wire fraud” (crimes involving phone and or internet) or “mail fraud” is involved. (Mail fraud falls under the jurisdiction of the U.S. Secret Service.)
People facing prosecution for Organized Fraud in federal court can face a sentence of up to Thirty (30) years in prison and or $1 million dollars in fines if a financial institution was affected by the alleged crime.
Under Florida state law potential penalties for Organized Fraud can include:
- Up to Thirty (30) years or life in prison, and fines of up to $15,000 (if the value of property fraudulently obtained is more than $15,000).
- The victim or victims may also seek financial restitution for their losses.
If the victim(s) seek restitution and it is awarded by the court, then the person convicted may have their possessions seized and used toward the restitution. A conviction can lead to the loss of some or all of your property.
Needless to say, if you are facing charges of fraud, then you need to secure the services of an experienced Miami Criminal Lawyer. Without proper legal representation, you stand defenseless against zealous prosecutors whose job it is to prove your guilt.
Evan Hoffman is a Miami Criminal Lawyer who used to work as a prosecutor, so he understands the law and criminal justice system inside and out. He can review your case and help you mount a solid defense strategy.
Call today for a FREE consultation, by calling (305) 928-1669 or contacting us online.