Getting accused of racketeering is a serious event. You cannot ignore the accusations and subject yourself to the harshest punishments that the state can dole out. You must fight back against these charges with the help of our Hartford County criminal defense attorneys.
Why Did I Get Charged for Racketeering?
If you are being charged with racketeering, this means that the state has seen a pattern of behavior from you over the past 10 or so years. You have committed multiple crimes and they could be related to the same enterprise.
This is different than being charged with multiple crimes over a 10-year time period. It is possible to get charged with three or four crimes in the same decade, but if the state does not think that the crimes are related or that there is a pattern, then they are not going to move forward with racketeering charges.
What Kinds of Crimes Can Be Considered Part of a Pattern?
The state can consider multiple crimes to be a part of racketeering activity. Some of the crimes are financial in nature, but some violent crimes can also be considered as part of a racketeering scheme. Common charges for racketeering defendants include:
- Bribery
- Usage of counterfeit currency
- Money laundering
- Running an illegal gambling ring
- Burglary
- Murder
If the crimes can be connected in some way, the prosecution is likely to go for racketeering charges and more severe punishments.
Can I Go to Jail for Racketeering in Connecticut?
Defendants who are convicted of racketeering often go to jail. Because there are often multiple charges against such a defendant, their jail sentence can last a long time. Being convicted of multiple crimes can result in multiple lengthy jail sentences, and how long you would actually spend in jail can depend on many different factors.
One of them is whether or not the prison sentences are served consecutively or concurrently. Let’s say you get two years for one crime and three years for another. Concurrent sentences would combine these punishments, so you would stay in prison for three years. Consecutive terms would mean that you go to jail for two years and then another three years, serving time for both crimes.
How Can I Defend Myself from Racketeering Accusations?
Our attorneys can look at your case and decide on the best possible defensive strategy. When denying your part in racketeering schemes you could argue that:
- You did not know about any criminal activity
- You were committing crimes while under duress
- There was actually no pattern of illegal activity
Talk to Our Lawyers Today
Now that you can tell how serious these charges can be, contact the Law Offices of Marc N. Needelman. We can tell you more about how we can help you develop the best possible defensive strategy.
