Racketeering involves participating in or running a criminal enterprise or organization, and racketeers may engage in various illegal activities, such as extortion, bribery, gambling, drug trafficking, and money laundering, among others. Racketeering is often associated with organized crime groups, such as the mafia or cartels. As you can imagine, the state of California seeks to harshly punish all those found guilty of racketeering, which is why if you’re currently facing these charges, you need a dedicated Red Bluff criminal lawyer in your corner who can help fight for your rights and protect your future. Read on and contact Cohen Criminal Law to learn more about the penalties for racketeering in California and how our legal team can assist you.
What is Racketeering?
Racketeering under California law is defined as any criminal activity that is carried out for the benefit or financial gain of an enterprise or organization. An enterprise or organization is any group of two or more people who share a common purpose or goal. The criminal activity must be one of the following offenses:
- Murder
- Kidnapping
- Robbery
- Arson
- Extortion
- Bribery
- Grand theft
- Receiving stolen property
- Forgery
- Counterfeiting
- Gambling
- Drug trafficking
- Money laundering
- Human trafficking
- Identity theft
- Computer hacking
- Fraud
- Embezzlement
To be convicted of racketeering in California, the prosecution must prove several things. First, they must prove that you committed or attempted to commit two or more of the above offenses within a 10-year period with the intent to benefit or further the goals of an enterprise or organization. The prosecution must also prove that the offenses were related or connected to each other by a common scheme, plan, or motive. An attorney can assess the circumstances of your case, and, from there, build a strong defense on your behalf that best challenges the prosecution’s assertions.
What are the Penalties for Racketeering in California?
The California Control of Profits of Organized Crime Act is the state law that targets racketeering and organized crime. Under the CCPOCA, the state can seize the assets and profits of criminal enterprises and impose harsh penalties on racketeers. If you’re found guilty of racketeering in California, you can face a wide range of penalties, including the following:
- Up to 20 years of incarceration
- A $25,000fine
- Forfeiture of any property derived from or used in the racketeering activity
- Restitution to any victims
- A civil lawsuit by the state or any injured party for up to three times the amount of damages caused by the racketeering activity
Don’t make the mistake of facing these penalties without a competent Tehama County criminal defense lawyer. Contact Cohen Criminal Law today so we can begin building your defense.
