Racketeering
If you have been charged with Racketeering, your first thought might be “what is racketeering?” Racketeering is a type of criminal activity that’s done to make a profit, often through threats or violence. The act has often been associated with organized crime since the early 1920s. Some criminal acts that are considered racketeering activities include murder, assault, kidnapping, burglary, robbery, human trafficking, forgery, identity theft, and pandering.
Under Colorado law, racketeering is a serious offense that carries steep fines and the potential for many years of incarceration. State allegations may even lead to federal criminal charges. Therefore, those facing charges under COCCA must retain an aggressive and experienced criminal defense attorney as soon as possible.
Racketeering, Criminal Defense Attorney | Colorado Springs, CO
If you have been arrested for racketeering in Colorado Springs, CO, consider retaining a defense lawyer from the Law Offices of Clifton Black. These offenses can carry harsh penalties and should not be taken lightly.
Your freedom is at stake. Call (719) 328-1616 to secure a confidential consultation with Law Offices of Clifton Black, PC today. The attorneys at Law Offices of Clifton Black, PC proudly represent people in the Colorado Springs and El Paso County greater area including Fountain, Peyton, Palmer Lake, Black Forest, Monument, and Calhan.
Information Center
- What is the Colorado Organized Crime Control Act?
- Penalties for Racketeering in Colorado
- Additional Resources
What is the Colorado Organized Crime Control Act?
Colorado law contains a series of statutes called The Colorado Organized Crime Control Act (COCCA). It prohibits several criminal activities aimed at members of criminal enterprises such as:
- Loansharking
- Selling stolen property
- Gambling
- Distribution of contraband substances
- Various forms of social exploitation
The COCCA also prohibits several racketeering activities. Under C.R.S. 18-17-104, it is unlawful for any individual to:
- Knowingly receive or derive proceeds from a pattern of racketeering activity or through the collection of an unlawful debt;
- Through a pattern of racketeering activity or the collection of an unlawful debt, to knowingly acquire or maintain, directly or indirectly, any interest in or control of any enterprise or real property;
- To knowingly conduct or participate, directly or indirectly, in any enterprise through a pattern of racketeering activity or the collection of an unlawful debt; or
- Conspire or endeavor to violate any of these racketeering provisions.
Penalties for Racketeering in Colorado
The penalties for racketeering in Colorado can be severe as it is considered a Class 2 felony. Class 2 felony is punishable by 8 to 24 years in prison and $5,000 to $1 million in fines. Furthermore, there is a mandatory 5-year parole period for Class 2 felonies. If the defendant has a prior history of being convicted of a felony, they will be ineligible to receive fines instead of imprisonment.
While there may be several possible legal defenses to racketeering charges such as false identification, lack of criminal intent, or lack of criminal enterprises, it is important to retain the assistance of an experienced white-collar crime attorney in Colorado. To protect your rights and freedom, contact Law Offices of Clifton Black, PC.
Additional Resources
Colorado Revised Statutes: Racketeering – Follow the link provided to access the official website for Colorado Revised Statutes (CRS) and read 18-17-104 which constitutes the Colorado Organized Crime Control Act. You can view a list of racketeering activities prohibited by the state of Colorado.
FBI: White Collar Crime – Access the official website for the FBI to read about white-collar crimes. Click the link to learn more information about money laundering, health care fraud, and investment fraud.
Colorado Racketeering Criminal Defense Lawyer, Denver
If you have been accused of racketeering or any other white-collar crime, it is best to retain the legal counsel of an experienced defense lawyer in Colorado. The attorneys at Law Offices of Clifton Black, PC understand how difficult criminal allegations can be. We can help you craft a strong defense and help you avoid full statutory penalties for your charges.
You can call us at (719) 328-1616 to set up your first consultation. Law Offices of Clifton Black, PC has offices in Colorado Springs, CO, and Denver, CO but also accepts clients throughout the greater El Paso County area and surrounding counties including Chaffe County, Douglas County, Elbert County, Teller County, and Fremont County. Don’t delay in contacting us. We are prepared to discuss your various legal options.