Raleigh Racketeering Lawyer

Racketeering Attorney In Raleigh

If you’re being investigated or charged under federal or state racketeering laws, you need to hire a skilled Raleigh racketeering lawyer with the experience, skill, and tenacity to fight back. Racketeering charges, often filed under RICO (Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act), are some of the most aggressive and far-reaching criminal allegations an individual or business can face.

These cases usually involve accusations of organized criminal activity, wire fraud, drug trafficking, money laundering, or white-collar crimes. They’re complex, high-stakes, and often prosecuted in federal court.

Without the right defense strategy in place, a racketeering charge can result in long prison sentences, asset forfeiture, and a permanent stain on your name. Whether you are a business owner, executive, or employee, hiring an experienced criminal defense attorney as early as possible can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.

What Is Racketeering?

Racketeering is when someone takes part in an ongoing pattern of criminal activity, usually as part of a group or organization. It can include things such as fraud, bribery, drug trafficking, or money laundering. The key is that it’s not just one crime. It’s a series of illegal acts tied to a bigger operation. These cases are serious and often handled in federal court under RICO laws.

Raleigh racketeering laws are shaped primarily by federal RICO statutes but can also include state-level statutes depending on the scope and type of alleged activity. Under 18 U.S. Code § 1961–1968, the federal government defines racketeering as engaging in a pattern of criminal activity connected to an “enterprise.”

This could include anything from a street gang or drug ring to a business involved in repeated fraud or corruption. To bring a RICO case, prosecutors must prove that all the following things occurred:

• There was a group or organization involved in ongoing criminal activity, often called an enterprise
• You participated in the enterprise’s affairs
• You committed at least two predicate criminal acts (like fraud, extortion, bribery, or drug trafficking) within a 10-year period.

North Carolina also has its own anti-racketeering statutes under the North Carolina Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act, often used in conjunction with federal charges. These laws allow state prosecutors to build cases against individuals they believe are engaged in ongoing illegal enterprises.

Common Types of Racketeering Cases

U.S. attorneys’ offices completed 1,131 investigations into RICO offenses between fiscal year (FY) 2012 and FY 2022, looking into 4,698 individuals. During that period, the number of individuals in U.S. attorneys’ investigations decreased by 33%, from 441 in FY 2012 to 295 in FY 2022.

Racketeering charges can span a wide range of criminal conduct. Some of the more common types of racketeering cases seen in Raleigh and across North Carolina include:

• Drug trafficking rings
• Mail and wire fraud
• Human trafficking
• Exploitation
• Healthcare or insurance fraud
• Organized retail theft
• Public corruption
• Bribery
• Money laundering

What makes these charges especially serious is the pattern aspect. Prosecutors aren’t just seeking convictions for a single crime, but a whole system of criminal behavior. It is critical to have an exceptional racketeering attorney who understands how to unravel complex investigations and challenge the government’s narrative.

Who Investigates Racketeering?

Racketeering cases are typically investigated by federal agencies such as:

• The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)
• The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA)
• The Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation Division (IRS-CI)
• The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ)

At the local level, the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation (SBI) and Raleigh Police Department may assist with investigations, particularly in cases involving narcotics or organized retail crime. Investigations often span months or even years and include wiretaps, surveillance, undercover operations, financial audits, and subpoenaed documents.

About Us

W James Payne is a dedicated criminal defense attorney and retired U.S. Marine Corps Colonel with over 40 years of experience defending clients in complex criminal and military justice matters. A lifelong North Carolinian and Campbell University alumnus, he has been serving the Wilmington and Raleigh areas since 1988.

Mr. Payne defends white-collar cases and other serious charges in both state and federal courts, earning respect from judges and peers alike for his relentless advocacy and proven courtroom experience.

FAQs

How Do I Beat Racketeering Charges?

Beating racketeering charges starts with hiring an experienced defense attorney who understands how to challenge the government’s evidence. Your lawyer can question the existence of an enterprise, attack the alleged pattern of crimes, and file motions to suppress improperly gathered evidence. In some cases, exposing flaws in the prosecution’s timeline or witnesses can be enough to weaken or even dismiss the case.

What Are the Three Types of Racketeering?

Racketeering generally falls into three categories: organized crime-related activity (like drug or human trafficking), white-collar crimes (like fraud or embezzlement), and public corruption. All involve repeated criminal acts tied to an ongoing group or enterprise. The law focuses on the pattern and organization behind the crimes, not just one illegal act, making these cases complex and serious.

Has Anyone Ever Beaten a Racketeering Charge?

Yes, many people have successfully beaten racketeering charges, especially when the prosecution fails to prove a clear pattern of criminal activity or connection to an enterprise. Skilled defense attorneys can challenge the government’s narrative, discredit key witnesses, and expose procedural issues. Every case is different, but with the right legal strategy, beating a racketeering charge is absolutely possible.

What Is the Average Sentence for Racketeering?

Racketeering sentences vary depending on the crimes involved, a person’s criminal history, and whether the case is in state or federal court. However, convictions often come with long prison terms, steep fines, and asset forfeiture. Because the law treats racketeering as a serious, organized effort, sentences are typically much harsher than for standalone criminal offenses.

Hire a Racketeering Lawyer – Contact W. James Payne Law Firm Today

If you’re facing serious racketeering charges, now is the time to take control of your future. Don’t wait for investigators or prosecutors to build their case. Get ahead of it with a strong legal defense. W. James Payne has the experience, insight, and determination to stand up for you in and out of court. Contact us today for a confidential consultation and let a trusted Raleigh racketeering lawyer start protecting your rights immediately.