An Experienced Fort Lauderdale White Collar Crime Attorney Shares 7 Common White Collar Crimes in Florida

Imagine a seemingly ordinary university student, immersed in the routines of academia, suddenly thrust into the spotlight for orchestrating a multi-million dollar fraud scheme. This is the reality faced by Matthew Frederic Bergwall, a 21-year-old student formerly at the University of Miami, who stands accused of hacking a major shipping company and manipulating tracking information to orchestrate a nationwide "FTID" (Fraudulent Tracking ID) scheme.

The details are staggering: nearly 10,000 fraudulent returns, $3.5 million in lost merchandise and revenue for retailers, and a personal shopping spree involving luxury watches, designer clothing, and high-end electronics. Bergwall's alleged actions have not only shaken the world of e-commerce but also raise critical questions about the vulnerability of our systems and the complex motivations behind white collar crime.

As a Fort Lauderdale white collar crime attorney, I witness firsthand the devastating impact of these offenses. From individuals grappling with the weight of accusations to businesses struggling to recover from financial losses, the consequences can be far-reaching. Yet, amidst the complexities of the legal system, there remains a fundamental truth: everyone deserves a fair defense, regardless of the alleged offense.

Even the most well-intentioned individuals can find themselves facing accusations of white-collar crime. A moment of poor judgment, a lapse in ethical conduct, or simply an unforeseen circumstance can land someone in a situation they never imagined.

That's why it's crucial to be aware of the different types of white collar crimes and understand the potential consequences they carry. By exploring these offenses and the possible defenses your attorney can claim, you can be equipped with the knowledge to navigate this complex landscape and protect yourself from becoming embroiled in such situations.

White-Collar Crime and Legal Jurisdiction

Before we delve into the seven most common white collar crimes in Florida, it's crucial to understand the varying legal jurisdictions and their corresponding penalties. White-collar offenses can be classified as either state or federal crimes, depending on the specific nature and scope of the act. This distinction significantly impacts the potential consequences, as both jurisdictions have their own set of statutes and sentencing guidelines.

Federal vs. State White-Collar Crimes

• Federal Crimes: These offenses typically involve activities that cross state lines or involve interstate commerce, such as securities fraud, mail fraud, and wire fraud. Federal crimes are prosecuted by the United States Attorney's Office and carry potentially harsher penalties, including longer prison sentences and higher fines.
• State Crimes: These offenses are specific to Florida law and involve activities that occur within the state borders, such as embezzlement, bribery, and tax evasion. State crimes are prosecuted by the Florida Department of Law Enforcement or local authorities and generally carry less severe penalties than federal offenses.

Factors Determining Fines and Penalties

Several factors can influence the final fines and penalties imposed on an individual convicted of a white collar crime, regardless of jurisdiction. These key factors include:

• Severity of the Offense: The magnitude of the financial loss, the number of victims, and the intent behind the act all play a role in determining the severity of the crime, consequently impacting the potential sentence.
• The Defendant's Criminal History: Prior convictions can significantly increase the severity of the sentence, as they demonstrate a pattern of criminal behavior.
• Cooperation with Law Enforcement: Individuals who cooperate with authorities and provide valuable information may receive reduced charges or lighter sentences.
• The Judge's Discretion: Ultimately, the judge hearing the case holds the final say in determining the sentence. Their interpretation of the crime, the defendant's background, and the applicable legal principles will guide their decision.

Next, let's explore the seven most common white-collar crimes committed in Florida. The actual consequences imposed will depend on a complex interplay of factors, including the aforementioned jurisdictional and individual circumstances.

1. Embezzlement

Embezzlement occurs when someone fraudulently appropriates property or funds that they have been entrusted with, typically for their own personal gain. In Florida, embezzlement is often seen in various forms, such as employees misappropriating funds from their workplaces, trustees unlawfully diverting assets from trust accounts for personal use, and guardians illicitly using the finances of their wards. These acts not only betray a trust but also can lead to significant financial losses for the victims and severe legal consequences for the perpetrators.

2. Fraud

Fraud encompasses various deceptive practices intended to gain financial or other advantages. Common manifestations of fraud include elaborate Ponzi schemes, where returns for older investors are paid out of new investors' funds; pyramid schemes, which rely on the recruitment of increasingly larger numbers of investors; and investment scams, where false promises of high returns are used to lure victims. These fraudulent activities can involve complex schemes and often result in substantial financial losses for individuals and businesses alike.

3. Money Laundering

Money laundering involves the process of making illegally obtained money appear legitimate. This is typically done by disguising the origins of the funds through a series of complex transactions and legal structures. Common techniques include the use of shell companies, which exist only on paper and have no active business operations, using cash-intensive businesses like casinos to mix illegal funds with legitimate earnings, and engaging in real estate transactions that obscure the true source of the funds.

4. Bribery and Public Corruption

Bribery and public corruption are serious offenses in Florida. Bribery involves the exchange of something of value, like money, services, or goods, to influence the actions of a public official or employee. Public corruption, on the other hand, refers to situations where government officials abuse their position to gain personal benefits. This can include embezzlement of public funds, nepotism, or favoritism in awarding contracts. These activities undermine public trust and the integrity of governmental institutions.

5. Tax Evasion

Tax evasion is the illegal act of not paying taxes that are legally due. This can involve deliberately underreporting income, inflating deductions, or hiding money and assets in offshore accounts. In Florida, as in other states, tax evasion undermines the government’s ability to fund public services and places an unfair burden on honest taxpayers.

6. Computer Crimes

In the digital age, computer crimes have become increasingly prevalent in Florida. These crimes involve illegal activities conducted via computers or the internet. Common examples include hacking, where individuals gain unauthorized access to data or systems; phishing, which involves tricking individuals into disclosing personal information; and identity theft, where personal information is stolen to gain access to financial resources or other benefits. These crimes can lead to significant financial losses and pose serious threats to personal security and privacy.

7. Healthcare Fraud

Healthcare fraud involves the illegal act of filing false healthcare claims to receive unentitled payouts. This can include billing for services not rendered, upcoding (billing for more expensive services than those actually provided), or performing unnecessary procedures to generate insurance payments. Such fraudulent activities contribute to escalating healthcare costs and can negatively impact the quality and availability of medical care.

Fighting the Charges: Possible Defenses for White-Collar Crimes

Facing accusations of white-collar crime can be a daunting and stressful experience. As mentioned earlier, the consequences can be severe, ranging from hefty fines to lengthy prison sentences. However, it's crucial to understand that you have rights, and a skilled and experienced white collar crime attorney can play a vital role in protecting those rights and defending your case.

Here's a breakdown of potential defense strategies your attorney might employ:

Challenge the Prosecution

• Analyze evidence for flaws or inconsistencies
• Question witness credibility and motives
• Argue entrapment if coerced into wrongdoing

 Demonstrate Lack of Intent

• Assert a mistake of fact defense if unaware of the law's violation
• Show good faith reliance on flawed professional advice

Protect Your Procedural Rights

• Challenge illegally obtained evidence
• Ensure charges were filed within the legal timeframe

Negotiate for Reduced Charges

• Seek a lesser offense based on the circumstances
• Aim for lighter sentences or even probation.

Explore Alternative Sentencing

• Consider options like community service or restitution instead of prison time

The specific defense strategies employed will depend on the unique details of your case, the charges you face, and the available evidence. If you find yourself facing accusations of white collar crime, remember you are not alone. Seek legal counsel immediately and trust your attorney to explore all possible defense options and fight your case aggressively.

Facing White-Collar Charges? Fight Back with R. David Williams 

Facing accusations of white-collar crime can be overwhelming and disorienting. The financial, legal, and personal consequences can feel insurmountable. But it's crucial to remember you have rights, and you don't have to navigate this challenging situation on your own. 

The Law Offices of R. David Williams stands ready to provide the experienced and dedicated legal representation you need. With over 25 years of experience defending individuals against complex white collar charges, Fort Lauderdale white collar crime lawyer David Williams possesses a deep understanding of Florida's intricate legal landscape. He will meticulously analyze your case, explore every possible defense avenue, and fight aggressively to protect your rights and freedom.

Protect your future and your rights. Don’t waste valuable time searching online for “white collar crime lawyers near me.” Call us instead at (954) 522-9997 or via our online form for a FREE consultation with a Broward criminal attorney. Let us advocate for you during this critical time.

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The information in this blog post (post) is provided for general informational purposes only and may not reflect the current law in your jurisdiction. No information in this post should be construed as legal advice from the individual author or the law firm, nor is it intended to be a substitute for legal counsel on any subject matter. No reader of this post should act or refrain from acting based on any information included in or accessible through this post without seeking the appropriate legal or other professional advice on the particular facts and circumstances at issue from a lawyer licensed in the recipient’s state, country, or other appropriate licensing jurisdiction.

Law Offices of R. David Williams, P.A.
15 Southwest 10th Street
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33315
(954) 522-9997
https://dwilliamslaw.com/