Last Updated on: 19th March 2023, 01:34 am

What You Need to Know About Gang Crimes and Federal Law

Uncovering the Dark World of Gang Activity

Gang crimes have become increasingly prevalent in recent years. These criminal organizations are responsible for a variety of violent and drug-related crimes that terrorize communities across the country. While most gangs operate at a local level, there are also organized crime syndicates that operate at a national or international level.

As a member of a street gang, you are subject to harsher punishment if you are charged with a crime. It’s crucial to contact an experienced attorney as soon as possible to ensure that your rights are protected. With federal charges, the risks associated with a conviction are more significant. The penalties are stricter than with state crimes, and federal prosecutors will use every resource at their disposal to gather evidence against the defendants.

Understanding Gangs and Their Activities

According to the Department of Justice, a criminal gang is defined as at least three people who have a group identity that’s built to spread intimidation and fear. These people use intimidation and violence to participate in criminal activity without being challenged.

Street gangs, motorcycle gangs, prison gangs, and organized groups might all be tried for gang crimes. Prison gangs are unique in that they exist inside correctional institutions. However, people might keep their ties to prison gangs for the rest of their lives after being released.

Gangs often traffic drugs and engage in other illegal activities. Large criminal organizations might pose as local businesses while working in illegal actions like racketeering.

Federal Law and Gang Crimes

Using federal regulations and legislation, prosecutors will go after local gang crime in federal court. In addition to being charged with offenses in a state court, you might be charged with a federal crime.

Street gangs operate on a criminal level. There are federal guidelines in place that define street gang activity for the entire US, no matter which city is involved. Both rural and urban areas are subject to these rules.

If you are found to be part of a gang based on these conditions, then you might face an extra 10 years on your prison sentence. However, this is only applicable if the prosecution can prove that you committed the crimes for the gang or that you were aiming to move up in the gang by committing the crimes.

Charges for Gang Crimes

There is a list of ways that people might be charged with having committed gang crimes. These include planning or committing a felony for a gang, selling or manufacturing drugs for the gang, conspiring to commit federal crimes with the gang, using violence or threats to retain their gang position, committing a felony that is often accompanied by violence, even if the action itself isn’t violent, and having been convicted of drug crimes or another felony in the previous five years.

Even if you didn’t take part in a certain crime, you might still be charged for planning it. Conspiracy charges can apply to everyone who knew about a certain crime, even if they didn’t actively contribute to the planning.

Another important federal act is the RICO Act, which allows you to be charged for conspiring to commit at least two crimes in relation to a gang. To be defined as a pattern, you need to commit both criminal acts or conspiracies within a decade.

If you are part of a criminal organization and are part of illegal racketeering operations, you can be charged for violating the RICO Act.

Racketeering occurs when you threaten to commit or actually commit crimes like extortion, robbery, murder, arson, kidnapping, bribery, and other violent crimes. You are also engaging in racketeering if you partake in the manufacture or trafficking of drugs. In addition, sexual exploitation of children, counterfeiting, and obstruction of justice all count as racketeering crimes.

Seeking Legal Help for Gang-Related Charges

Gang-related charges are extremely serious, and you need an experienced attorney to help you navigate the legal system. The attorneys at Spodek Law Group have extensive experience handling gang-related charges and can help you build a strong defense.

It’s essential to have proper legal representation throughout the process. With federal charges, the risks associated with a conviction are more significant, and the penalties are stricter than with state crimes. Federal prosecutors will use every resource at their disposal to gather evidence against the defendants, making it critical to have a skilled attorney by your side.

Conclusion

Gang-related crimes are a scourge on society, and law enforcement officials take them very seriously. If you have been charged with a gang-related offense, it’s vital to contact an experienced attorney as soon as possible. With their help, you can build a strong defense and protect your rights. Remember, even if you didn’t actively participate in a crime, you could still be charged with planning it. The attorneys at Spodek Law Group have the experience and expertise to help you navigate this complex legal landscape and defend your rights. Don’t wait; contact us today.