When brought up on drug charges, suspects often face money laundering or conspiracy charges as well. Money laundering and conspiracy convictions can greatly increase penalties. At Guerra & Farah, PLLC, our Texas drug conspiracy charges defense lawyers are committed to protecting your rights.
Based in Houston, with offices in El Paso and McAllen, Guerra & Farah, PLLC, provides an experienced, aggressive defense against State and Federal money laundering and conspiracy charges throughout Texas, including El Paso, McAllen, Houston, Corpus Christi, and Brownsville.
Money laundering is a crime under both federal and Texas state laws, which means either the State of Texas or the federal government may have jurisdiction. However, federal courts hear the majority of money laundering cases.
Money laundering refers to business activity connected with funds that were illicitly obtained. Examples of money laundering include hiding funds procured through drug sales so the profits appear as legitimate business revenue. In a federal case, the U.S. Attorney must prove that funds arose from illegal dealings and that the person laundering the money knew about the illegal activity and attempted to hide some aspect of the crime from the IRS or avoid reporting the laundered money under state or federal law.
Similar to money laundering, state and federal statutes also cover conspiracy, and consequently, either government may have jurisdiction in a conspiracy case. Conspiracy refers to more than one person working together to commit or agreeing to commit a felony. In a drug conspiracy, the group gears its efforts toward manufacturing or distributing drugs. To bring conspiracy charges in a federal case, no actual illicit activity must take place, just the intent or plan to commit a crime is sufficient for prosecution.
Federally prosecuted crimes are subject to federal sentencing guidelines. Money laundering may carry a sentence as great as 20 years in prison and a maximum fine of $500,000 or higher based on the value of property involved. Penalties under Texas statutes vary, but if the laundered money is greater than $200,000, first degree felony charges apply.
The maximum sentence for federally prosecuted conspiracy is five years. Under Texas conspiracy statutes, the conspiracy offense is one category lower than the planned crime. If the conspiracy planned is a state felony, then the conspiracy offense is a class A misdemeanor.
Put experienced Texas money laundering defense lawyers or Texas conspiracy charges attorneys on your side.
Schedule a Free, Confidential Consultation by calling us toll free at 1-866-529-6606 or in the Houston area at (713) 529-6606. If you prefer, you can fill out our intake form and we will contact you to schedule a consultation.
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