When facing serious charges in a federal court, experienced and aggressive legal defense is often a key factor in obtaining a positive outcome. Charges involving white collar crime in Florida are quite serious and much may be at stake for the accused. Often, a defendant’s reputation is on the line, and a highly publicized situation may have a very negative impact on a person’s family life.
A recent incident involved Democratic State Representative Reggie Fullwood. He has been charged with a number of wire and tax fraud crimes, including the embezzlement of campaign monies. Authorities claim he used the money for personal expenditures at jewelry shops and restaurants.
Florida law prohibits any political candidates or spouses of candidates from using funds related to a campaign to satisfy any debt unrelated to the campaign. The 41-year-old politician stands to face up to 20 years in prison for each of the 10 wire fraud charges, if convicted. He was released from jail, but, if he fails to appear at any hearings, he must pay $10,000 bond. Fullwood was also required to surrender his passport.
A person facing similar white collar crime charges in Florida will want to take advantage of an experienced criminal attorney’s skills to prepare as strong a defense as possible. In addition to an extended prison term, those convicted may incur substantial monetary fines to be paid as retribution. An attorney who clearly understands the law and is prepared to aggressively defend a client is often able to minimize the negative impact such situations can have on a defendant’s future.
Source: tampabay.com, “Jacksonville Rep. Reggie Fullwood indicted on federal charges”, Kristen M. Clark, April 15, 2016
