Under Florida law, white collar crimes are non-violent offenses committed primarily for purposes of financial gain, including crimes meant to defraud another individual and crimes intended to deprive another individual of property to which they are entitled.

White collar crimes prosecuted in Florida include the following offenses (with their statutory chapters):

• Bribery and misuse of public office (Chapter 838)
• Computer crimes Chapter (815)
• Financial transaction offenses (Chapter 896)
• Fraudulent practices (Chapter 817)
• Forgery and counterfeiting (Chapter 831)
• Issuance of worthless checks and drafts (Chapter 832)
• Money transmitters’ code violations (Chapter 560)
• Racketeering and illegal debts (Chapter 895)
• Theft (Chapter 812)
• Abuse, neglect and exploitation of elderly persons and disabled adults (Chapter 825)

White collar crimes include fraudulent or deceptive practices committed by financial advisors and brokers, such as Pyramid schemes and similar vehicles that promise high yields but in reality divert money from investors who have no prospect of receiving dividends.

White collar crimes in Florida can be prosecuted as aggravated offenses where an individual engages in two or more crimes that have similar intent, results, accomplices, victims and/or methods of commission. When a defendant engages in an aggravated white collar crime that victimizes 10 or more elderly individuals or veterans, or 20 or more individuals in general, that defendant can be charged with a felony in the first degree, which is subject to enhanced fines and jail time. An aggravated white collar crime can draw a sentence of up to 30 years in prison.

Additionally, Florida’s White Collar Crime Victim Protection Act gives victims the right to sue a defendant in civil court for financial damages.

It is possible for individuals working on financial matters to inadvertently or unknowingly become involved in criminal activity that places them at risk of possible white collar charges. An experienced criminal defense attorney who understands the nuances of white collar crime can help you evaluate your situation and the optimal strategy for an effective defense.

At the Law Offices of Tad A. Yates, P.C. in Orlando, I represent people facing white collar criminal investigations or charges in Florida. Call my office at 407-608-7777 or contact me online anytime to arrange a free initial consultation.