Defending Clients Accused of Federal Money Laundering in Texas and Nationwide
Money laundering is a complex financial crime that is heavily prosecuted under both state and federal laws. In more serious cases, especially those involving large amounts of money or multi-state transactions, the federal government will intervene and pursue charges in federal court. A conviction for money laundering at the federal level can bring harsh consequences, including significant prison time and large fines. Anyone accused of federal money laundering needs skilled, aggressive legal representation.
At The Crowder Law Firm, P.C., we defend individuals and organizations accused of financial crimes, including money laundering under federal statutes. With decades of experience handling serious criminal matters in federal courts across the country, our firm is ready to advocate for your rights. We understand what is at stake in these cases, and we work to uncover all available defense options that could help our clients achieve a favorable resolution while avoiding long-term consequences.
Federal Money Laundering Allegations in Texas
At its core, money laundering involves attempts to conceal the origins of money obtained through criminal acts. This may include moving money through multiple accounts, altering business records to disguise income sources, or transferring money between countries to obscure financial trails. These actions may be prosecuted as federal crimes when they involve interstate or international transactions or when the financial activities are tied to other serious federal offenses.
Federal money laundering charges typically arise under 18 U.S.C. § 1956, which covers the “laundering of monetary instruments.” This statute criminalizes certain financial transactions involving proceeds derived from “specified unlawful activity,” which encompasses a broad range of criminal conduct. Under this law, charges may apply if an individual allegedly:
Conducted or attempted to conduct a financial transaction knowing the money was from unlawful activity,
Intended to promote further illegal acts,
Attempted to conceal the source, ownership, or location of the funds, or
Tried to avoid financial reporting requirements that apply to certain transactions.
Offenses Commonly Associated with Federal Money Laundering
Money laundering often appears in connection with broader criminal activity. A person may face federal money laundering charges if the transactions are linked to crimes such as:
Drug trafficking or distribution involving controlled substances across state lines or international borders
Participation in a drug conspiracy or continuing criminal enterprise
Violent crimes, including robbery, kidnapping, or homicide
Bribery or extortion involving government officials or agencies
Bank fraud or wire fraud against financial institutions
Embezzlement or theft involving public programs or taxpayer funds
Trafficking firearms or smuggling weapons into or out of the country
Human trafficking or the exploitation of minors for commercial sex acts
Smuggling prohibited goods, counterfeit currency, or sensitive materials
Espionage or acts involving national security threats
Each of these underlying offenses can elevate the severity of money laundering allegations and expose defendants to greater penalties.
Penalties for Federal Money Laundering Convictions
Under federal law, a conviction for money laundering can lead to up to 20 years in prison. In addition to incarceration, courts may impose fines of up to $500,000 or twice the value of the laundered funds, whichever is greater. For professionals, such as business owners or financial officers, a conviction can also lead to loss of licensure, damaged reputations, and restricted employment opportunities.
Given these stakes, defendants must act quickly to secure experienced legal counsel capable of analyzing complicated financial records, challenging government evidence, and presenting a comprehensive defense.
Defending Against Federal Money Laundering Accusations
To obtain a conviction, federal prosecutors must prove that a defendant knowingly engaged in a financial transaction involving criminal proceeds and that there was an intent to conceal or promote unlawful activity. At The Crowder Law Firm, P.C., we thoroughly investigate every aspect of the charges, challenge the sufficiency and legality of the government’s evidence, and work to establish reasonable doubt regarding our client’s knowledge, intent, or involvement in the alleged scheme.
Our legal team is adept at handling white collar defense and understands the intricacies of banking laws, tax codes, and federal investigative procedures. We know how to negotiate with federal prosecutors when appropriate and are prepared to defend our clients at trial when needed.
Speak With Our Texas Money Laundering Defense Attorneys Today
Federal money laundering allegations demand immediate action and a robust legal strategy. At The Crowder Law Firm, P.C., we are dedicated to protecting our clients’ futures by delivering effective, results-driven defense against complex federal charges. Whether you are under investigation or have already been charged, we encourage you to get in touch with our team to discuss your legal options.
Call us at 817-936-3167 today to schedule your free and confidential consultation.