White-collar allegations are often levied against business professionals and those in government, but they are non-violent offenses aimed at financial gain. While high-profile cases of fraud or embezzlement frequently make headlines, several lesser-known white-collar crimes also deserve attention.
In Texas, white-collar crimes include a wide range of offenses from embezzlement to money laundering. However, some lesser-known offenses do exist. One such possible charge is bribery. This involves offering, giving, receiving or soliciting something of value to influence the actions of an individual in a public or legal duty.
Another is counterfeiting, which is the creation or use of forged documents or items, often involving money or financial instruments. And, another one that is rising in popularity is healthcare fraud. These are fraudulent activities related to healthcare services, such as overbilling or billing for services not rendered.
Federal white-collar crimes
At the federal level, white-collar crimes are diverse and complex. Some lesser-known offenses include Stolen Valor Act violations. It is a federal crime to fraudulently claim receipt of certain military decorations and medals.
Other crimes include insider trading, which includes illegally buying or selling securities based on material, non-public information. And, money laundering, which is disguising the source, ownership or destination of illegally obtained funds to make them appear legitimate.
Possible white-collar defenses
However, there are defenses to even lesser-known white-collar defenses. Defending against white-collar crime charges requires a strategic approach tailored to the specific case. One such common defense is that the accused lacked intent. Proving the defendant did not knowingly and willfully engage in illegal conduct can sometimes be a valid defense to the criminal charge.
Another possible defense is entrapment. When an individual is induced by law enforcement or an agent of law enforcement to commit an unlawful act, they would not have normally carried out, the law says they have been entrapped. This can be used as a defense against the subsequent criminal charged for which they were entrapped.
Finally, there is the defense of duress. If the defendant was forced to participate in illegal activity under threat, the defense of duress may be used.
While white-collar crimes often bring to mind high-profile cases of fraud or embezzlement, many lesser-known offenses at both the state and federal level are equally important. Understanding these crimes and the potential defenses against them can provide valuable insights into the complex world of white-collar crime.