If Convicted
If convicted, the couple faces from ten years to life in prison – in addition to a maximum fine of $10 million. The officer himself faces an additional 20 years if either of the two money laundering charges sticks. In other words, this is a serious matter that requires a solid criminal defense.
Money Laundering
If you are facing drug charges or drug-related charges, they are unlikely to be as dramatic as this case, but they remain a serious business. The charge of money laundering (on top of the drug charge itself) refers to the white-collar crime of funneling proceeds from an illegal activity (such as selling drugs) into legal, mainstream money sources (such as through banks and other financial institutions), which makes it more difficult to trace where the money came from in the first place. Illegal drug activity and allegations related to terrorism are common sources of money laundering charges.
Federal Attention
The federal government pays special attention to schemes related to money laundering. In fact, they have recently begun to take a more careful look at financial institutions to help ensure that banks maintain rigorous internal systems that comply with all legal requirements and that allow them to better identify money that has been laundered.
In the State of Texas
Money laundering is not only a federal crime but is also a felony in the State of Texas. The seriousness of the charge increases in direct relation to the amount of money involved. In Texas, the most serious money laundering charge is a first-degree felony that is punishable by the following:
From five to 99 years (or life) in prison
Up to $10,000 in fines
Do Not Wait to Consult with an Experienced Killeen Criminal Defense Lawyer
Drug charges are serious, and when they are coupled with money laundering charges, they become that much more so. If you are facing a drug charge of any kind in addition to a drug-related charge, it is time to seek the professional legal counsel of Brett Pritchard at The Law Office of Brett H. Pritchard in Killeen, Texas. Mr. Pritchard is a focused criminal defense lawyer who has a wealth of experience successfully defending the legal rights of clients like you – while zealously pursuing their case’s most favorable resolutions. For more information about how we can help you, please do not hesitate to contact us online or call us at 254-501-4040 today.
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