Racketeering

Racketeering (RICO) Charges in Florida

Charged with racketeering or a RICO-related offense in Florida? Our board-certified trial attorneys defend complex state and federal cases statewide. Call 407-FIGHTER (407-344-4837).

What Is the Florida RICO Act?

Florida’s racketeering law is the Florida RICO Act in
Chapter 895, Florida Statutes.
Prosecutors must prove (1) an enterprise, (2) a pattern of racketeering activity, and (3) at least two predicate acts that are related by method, purpose, or participants.

Predicate Crimes (Racketeering Activity)

Fraud & White Collar

Medicaid fraud, insurance fraud, schemes to defraud
Money laundering, forgery, credit card crimes

Drugs & Trafficking

Drug trafficking and conspiracy
Sale/possession with intent to distribute

Corruption & Threats

Extortion, bribery, obstruction of justice
Perjury, witness tampering

Property & Other

Grand theft, burglary, dealing in stolen property
Illegal gambling, organized retail theft rings

Penalties Under Florida RICO

Felony charges: often first-degree felonies with long prison terms.
Asset forfeiture: seizure of proceeds and property tied to racketeering.
Civil liability: treble damages and attorney’s fees possible in civil RICO claims.

See BJS federal RICO statistics for trends in prosecutions and sentencing.

Florida Trends & Stats

FDLE Uniform Crime Reports show decreases in overall index crimes statewide, but fraud, organized theft, and complex conspiracies remain significant. Florida’s Office of Statewide Prosecution reports increased use of RICO charges for organized retail theft and fraud rings.

Common Defenses

No enterprise or structure proven
Predicate acts not established beyond reasonable doubt
No valid “pattern” (incidents unrelated or too far apart)
Suppression of unlawfully obtained evidence

Our attorneys frequently use pretrial motions to challenge charges.

FAQs

What is the statute of limitations for RICO?

Depends on predicate offenses, but Florida RICO prosecutions are often tied to the felony limitations (typically 4–5 years for first-degree felonies).

Can I face both state and federal RICO charges?

Yes, overlapping conduct can result in dual prosecutions if jurisdictional elements are met.

Can assets be seized in a RICO case?

Yes. Forfeiture is common in both criminal and civil proceedings.

Contact Fighter Law

Call 407-FIGHTER (407-344-4837) or contact us online for a confidential consultation with an Orlando criminal defense attorney.

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