Los Angeles White Collar Crime Defense Attorney

99 Percent Success Rate of Keeping People Out of Jail

What is White Collar Crime?

When most people think of criminal offenses, they typically think of violent crimes like murder, assault, or robbery. However, there is another category of criminal activity that is just as serious: white-collar crime. White-collar crime in California is a broad term used to describe a range of crimes. These non-violent offenses often involve individuals in positions of power, such as public officials, business executives, or other professionals who use their influence to commit fraudulent or deceitful acts for financial gain.

Unlike traditional street crimes, white-collar crimes involve deceit, concealment, or a violation of trust. They can take many forms, including bribery, embezzlement, fraud, identity theft, money laundering, insider trading, and cybercrimes. 

At the Law Offices of William Kroger in Los Angeles, we understand the gravity of being charged with a white-collar crime and the potential consequences that can result. Our experienced team is committed to helping clients navigate the complex legal system and protecting their rights. Whether facing charges of blackmail, larceny, bribery, fraud, embezzlement, racketeering, counterfeiting, or identity theft, we have the skill set and experience necessary to provide our clients with the best possible outcome.

If you have been accused of a white-collar crime, it is important to seek the advice and representation of an experienced criminal defense attorney who can protect your rights and help you achieve the best possible outcome in your case.

What are Some Common Penalties for White Collar Crimes?

The penalties for white-collar crimes in Los Angeles can vary significantly depending on the nature of the offense, the amount of money involved, the defendant's criminal history, and other factors. The following are some common penalties for white-collar crimes in Los Angeles:

1. Fines: White-collar crime convictions can result in substantial fines, which can range from a few thousand dollars to millions of dollars. The amount of the fine depends on the severity of the crime, the amount of money involved, and the defendant's ability to pay.
2. Restitution: Defendants may be required to pay restitution to the victims of their crimes. This can include reimbursement for financial losses or damages resulting from the crime.
3. Probation: A defendant may be placed on probation instead of being sentenced to prison. This typically involves meeting certain conditions, such as regularly reporting to a probation officer, abstaining from drugs and alcohol, and avoiding further criminal activity.
4. Imprisonment: Depending on the severity of the offense, a white-collar crime conviction may result in a prison sentence. The length of the sentence can vary from a few months to several years, or even decades in some cases.
5. Community service: Some white-collar crime convictions may result in a sentence of community service, which typically involves performing unpaid work for a specified number of hours.
6. Professional consequences: White-collar crime convictions can also result in significant professional consequences, such as the loss of a professional license, disbarment from practicing law, or the loss of a security clearance.

It is important to note that each case is unique, and the penalties for white-collar crimes will depend on the specific circumstances of the case.

Therefore, it is crucial to consult with an experienced attorney like William Kroger, who can provide tailored advice and representation based on the facts of your case.

How are White-Collar Crimes Investigated?

White-collar crimes are typically investigated by specialized law enforcement agencies, such as the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), or the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). These agencies have the resources and expertise to investigate complex financial crimes and can often uncover evidence that is not easily accessible to local law enforcement agencies.

In investigating white-collar crimes, law enforcement agencies may use a variety of tools and techniques, such as subpoenas for financial records, wiretaps, surveillance, and forensic accounting. They may also work with informants, who can provide valuable information about the inner workings of a criminal organization.

If you are under investigation for a white-collar crime, it's important to seek the advice of an experienced criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. An attorney can help protect your rights during the investigation and can work to ensure that any evidence obtained against you was obtained legally and is admissible in court.

How are White-Collar Crimes Prosecuted?

The process for prosecuting a white-collar crime in California is different from that of a traditional street crime. It usually starts with an investigation by law enforcement agencies, which can include the FBI, IRS, SEC, or other state or federal agencies. These agencies typically have specialized units or task forces that focus on white-collar crimes.

If an investigation uncovers evidence of criminal activity, the agency may present its findings to a grand jury, which will determine whether there is enough evidence to issue an indictment. If the grand jury decides to indict, the defendant will be formally charged with the crime and the case will proceed to trial.

White-collar crime cases are often complex and can involve extensive documentation and electronic evidence. Prosecutors will typically work with financial experts and other specialists to build their cases, and they may seek to negotiate plea deals or cooperate with other defendants to secure convictions.

As a skilled Los Angeles white-collar crime defense attorney, William Kroger has extensive experience handling all types of white-collar crime cases, from investigation through trial. We understand the importance of building a strong defense and protecting our client’s rights throughout the legal process. Contact our office today for a confidential consultation to discuss your case.

What Are Some Defenses for White-Collar Crime Charges?

If you have been charged with a white-collar crime, it's crucial to work with an experienced attorney who can help you build a strong defense. There are a variety of defenses that can be used in white-collar crime cases, depending on the specific circumstances of the case.

One common defense is lack of intent. Many white-collar crimes require the prosecution to prove that the defendant acted with a specific intent to commit the crime. If the defendant can demonstrate that they did not have the necessary intent, the charges may be dismissed.

Another defense is that the defendant was acting under duress or coercion. If the defendant can demonstrate that they were compelled to commit the crime under threat of harm to themselves or their family, this may be a valid defense.

Additionally, the defendant may argue that they were acting in good faith and believed that their actions were legal. This defense is often used in cases where the law is complex or unclear.

Finally, the defendant may argue that they were the victim of entrapment. This defense is based on the idea that the defendant was induced or persuaded to commit the crime by law enforcement officials.

At the Law Offices of William Kroger, we have extensive experience developing effective defenses for clients charged with white-collar crimes. We will carefully review the facts of your case and work with you to identify the best possible defense strategy. Contact us today to schedule a confidential consultation.

Ponzi Schemes and Investment Fraud in Los Angeles

Ponzi schemes and investment fraud are common types of white-collar crimes that have received significant attention in Los Angeles. In a Ponzi scheme, the perpetrator uses funds from new investors to pay off earlier investors, creating the illusion of legitimate returns. In reality, the scheme relies on a continuous flow of new investors to sustain itself, and when the scheme collapses, investors are left with substantial losses.

Investment fraud, on the other hand, involves misrepresentations or omissions of material facts in connection with the sale of investments, such as stocks, bonds, or mutual funds. This type of fraud can take many forms, such as false statements about a company's financial health or promises of guaranteed returns.

Both Ponzi schemes and investment fraud are serious offenses that can result in substantial financial losses for victims. In recent years, federal and state authorities have stepped up their efforts to investigate and prosecute these types of crimes, and penalties for those convicted of such offenses can be severe. For example, under California law, individuals convicted of securities fraud can face up to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $10 million.

One recent example of a Ponzi scheme in Los Angeles involved the operators of a solar panel company that defrauded investors of over $1 billion. The operators promised investors high returns on their investment, but instead used the funds to pay off earlier investors and for their expenses. They were eventually charged with multiple counts of securities fraud and money laundering, and several individuals were sentenced to prison.

In addition to criminal penalties, victims of Ponzi schemes and investment fraud may also have recourse through civil lawsuits to recover some of their losses. It's important to work with a skilled white-collar crime defense attorney like William Kroger to understand your legal options if you've been accused of or victimized by a Ponzi scheme or investment fraud.

Are Cryptocurrency Scams Considered White-Collar Crimes?

Cryptocurrency scams can be considered white-collar crimes, particularly when they involve fraudulent activities carried out by individuals or organizations to defraud others of their investments or funds through deception, misrepresentation, or other illegal means.

One type of cryptocurrency scam that has become increasingly common is known as a "rug pull," where the creators of a particular cryptocurrency or investment scheme suddenly withdraw their funds, leaving investors with worthless assets. Other examples of cryptocurrency fraud may include insider trading, Ponzi schemes, and market manipulation.

Under federal law, a wide range of criminal offenses can be considered white-collar crimes, including various forms of fraud, embezzlement, money laundering, and other financial crimes. Statutes such as the Securities Act of 1933, the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, and the Commodity Exchange Act (CEA) provide specific regulations governing financial transactions and securities markets.

In the case of cryptocurrency scams, the CEA and the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) may have jurisdiction over certain fraudulent activities involving virtual currencies. Additionally, the Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) may pursue criminal and civil enforcement actions against individuals or entities engaged in fraudulent schemes related to cryptocurrencies.

In summary, cryptocurrency scams like rug pulls and insider trading can certainly be considered white-collar crimes, and individuals facing such charges should seek the advice of an experienced attorney like William Kroger who can help navigate the complexities of these types of cases.

The Role of Defense Attorneys in White Collar Crime Cases

More than any other type of case, a conviction for a white-collar crime also brings with it astronomical financial penalties. Along with a felony conviction and prison time, a defendant can also expect to be burdened by a fine or restitution order in the tens or hundreds of thousands of dollars.

Securing a white-collar criminal lawyer with years of experience in defense like William Kroger is vital in these cases because of the priority that's placed on these charges. Law enforcement and prosecutors take these crimes very seriously.

Mr. Kroger and his firm are completely dedicated to your defense. Other white-collar criminal lawyers were former prosecutors, and are often very proud of their accomplishments when it comes to putting people in jail — people who are in a similar situation as you. Mr. Kroger has never flip-flopped in his position to help people.

Contacting Mr. Kroger's team early is vitally important. The earlier on in an investigation that you have top-notch representation, the better the outcome will be. White-collar cases are built by law enforcement over months or years. As soon as you suspect that you are under investigation, you need the advice of Mr. Kroger. It will shape how your next decade unfolds.

Call 323-655-5700 to schedule a free consultation today. You can also contact Attorney Kroger online.