What Are the Most Common Federal Crimes?

If you've received a federal grand jury subpoena or are under investigation by a federal agency, you're likely feeling overwhelmed and uncertain about what to expect. At Spodek Law Group, we understand how stressful and intimidating federal criminal investigations can be. With over 50 years of combined experience defending clients against federal charges, we're here to guide you through the process and fight aggressively to protect your rights and freedom.In this comprehensive guide, we'll break down the most common types of federal crimes prosecuted in the United States. We'll explain what these charges typically involve, the potential penalties, and how an experienced federal criminal defense attorney can help build a strong defense strategy.

Drug Trafficking and Distribution

Drug trafficking and distribution charges are among the most frequently prosecuted federal crimes. These cases often involve large-scale operations that cross state lines or international borders.Common federal drug charges include:

• Manufacture, distribution, or possession with intent to distribute controlled substances
• Conspiracy to distribute drugs
• Importation of illegal drugs
• Operating a continuing criminal enterprise

Federal drug trafficking charges carry extremely harsh mandatory minimum sentences, often 10 years to life in prison for first-time offenders. The specific penalties depend on factors like:

• Type and quantity of drugs involved
• Defendant's role in the operation
• Prior criminal history
• Whether firearms were present
• If death or serious injury resulted

For example, trafficking 1 kilogram of heroin or 5 kilograms of cocaine carries a 10-year mandatory minimum sentence. And if death results from use of the drugs, the minimum sentence increases to 20 years.With so much at stake, it's critical to have an experienced federal drug crimes lawyer in your corner. At Spodek Law Group, we have a proven track record of successfully defending clients against serious federal drug charges. We know how to challenge the prosecution's evidence, negotiate plea deals, and fight for reduced sentences.

White Collar Crimes

White collar crimes like fraud, embezzlement, and money laundering make up a significant portion of federal prosecutions. These financially-motivated crimes often involve complex schemes that cross state lines or use interstate commerce.Some of the most common federal white collar charges include:

• Wire fraud
• Mail fraud
• Bank fraud
• Securities fraud
• Tax evasion
• Money laundering
• Embezzlement
• Identity theft
• Insider trading

White collar crimes may seem less serious than violent offenses, but federal prosecutors take them very seriously. Convictions can result in lengthy prison sentences, massive fines, and asset forfeiture.For instance, wire fraud and mail fraud carry up to 20 years in federal prison per count. A complex fraud scheme with multiple counts can easily add up to decades behind bars. And financial penalties often reach into the millions of dollars.Defending against federal white collar charges requires a meticulous approach. Our attorneys at Spodek Law Group have extensive experience unraveling complex financial transactions and challenging the government's evidence. We know how to negotiate with prosecutors to minimize charges and penalties whenever possible.

Firearms Offenses

Federal firearms charges are aggressively prosecuted, especially for prohibited persons like convicted felons. Common federal gun crimes include:

• Felon in possession of a firearm
• Unlawful transfer or sale of firearms
• Using a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime or crime of violence
• Smuggling firearms

Penalties for federal gun crimes are severe. For example:

• Felon in possession: Up to 10 years in prison
• Using a firearm during a crime of violence: Mandatory minimum 5 years, consecutive to any other sentence
• Smuggling firearms: Up to 10 years in prison

If you're facing federal firearms charges, you need a lawyer who understands the complex web of federal and state gun laws. At Spodek Law Group, we have successfully defended many clients against serious weapons charges. We know how to challenge illegal searches and seizures, fight mandatory minimum sentences, and negotiate favorable plea deals when appropriate.

Sex Crimes

Federal sex crimes prosecutions have increased dramatically in recent years, especially cases involving the internet and child exploitation. Common federal sex offense charges include:

• Production, distribution, or possession of child pornography
• Online solicitation of a minor
• Sex trafficking
• Transportation of a minor for illegal sexual activity
• Sexual abuse of a minor on federal property

Federal sex crimes carry extremely harsh penalties, including lengthy mandatory minimum sentences. For example:

• Production of child pornography: 15-30 year mandatory minimum
• Distribution of child pornography: 5-20 year mandatory minimum
• Sex trafficking of a minor: 10 year mandatory minimum up to life in prison

Additionally, federal sex offenses require lifetime sex offender registration upon release from prison.Defending against federal sex crimes charges requires a delicate and strategic approach. At Spodek Law Group, we have the experience and resources to thoroughly investigate these sensitive cases and challenge the prosecution's evidence. We fight aggressively to protect our clients' rights and freedom.

Immigration Offenses

Immigration violations make up a significant portion of federal criminal prosecutions. Common charges include:

• Illegal entry
• Illegal reentry after deportation
• Harboring illegal aliens
• Marriage fraud
• Visa fraud
• Human smuggling

Penalties for immigration offenses vary widely depending on the specific charge and circumstances. For example:

• First-time illegal entry: Up to 6 months in prison
• Illegal reentry after deportation: Up to 2 years in prison (up to 20 years with certain prior convictions)
• Harboring illegal aliens: Up to 5 years in prison per alien harbored

Immigration charges often overlap with other federal offenses like drug trafficking or fraud. This can result in much harsher sentences.If you're facing federal immigration charges, you need a lawyer who understands both criminal defense and immigration law. At Spodek Law Group, we have successfully defended many non-citizens against serious federal charges. We fight to protect our clients' freedom and immigration status.

Cybercrime and Computer Offenses

As technology advances, federal prosecutions of computer-related crimes continue to increase. Common federal cybercrime charges include:

• Computer fraud and abuse
• Identity theft
• Phishing schemes
• Hacking
• Online piracy and copyright infringement
• Child exploitation offenses involving the internet

Federal cybercrime penalties can be severe, especially when the offense involves large-scale fraud or child exploitation. For example:

• Computer fraud: Up to 5-10 years in prison per count
• Identity theft: Mandatory 2 year sentence consecutive to any other sentence
• Production of child pornography using a computer: 15-30 year mandatory minimum

Defending against federal cybercrime charges requires specialized knowledge of both criminal law and technology. At Spodek Law Group, we work with top computer forensics experts to challenge the prosecution's evidence and build a strong defense for our clients.

Racketeering (RICO) Offenses

The Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations (RICO) Act allows federal prosecutors to target organized criminal enterprises. RICO charges can encompass a wide range of underlying crimes like:

• Drug trafficking
• Money laundering
• Extortion
• Bribery
• Fraud
• Murder

RICO prosecutions are extremely complex and carry severe penalties, including up to 20 years in prison per count and massive fines. The government can also seize assets connected to the alleged criminal enterprise.Defending against RICO charges requires a comprehensive strategy to challenge both the underlying crimes and the overall enterprise allegations. At Spodek Law Group, we have successfully defended clients in complex RICO cases involving multiple defendants and charges.

Public Corruption

Federal prosecutors aggressively pursue public corruption cases involving government officials and employees. Common charges include:

• Bribery of public officials
• Extortion under color of official right
• Honest services fraud
• Embezzlement of public funds
• Election law violations

Public corruption convictions often result in significant prison time and fines. For example, bribery of a public official carries up to 15 years in federal prison per count.These cases require a delicate approach, balancing legal defense with potential political and public relations implications. At Spodek Law Group, we have the experience and discretion to effectively handle high-profile public corruption cases.

Terrorism Offenses

While relatively rare, terrorism prosecutions carry some of the most severe penalties in the federal system. Charges may include:

• Providing material support to terrorists
• Conspiracy to commit acts of terrorism
• Use of weapons of mass destruction
• Hostage taking

Terrorism convictions often result in life sentences or multiple life terms. Even lesser charges like providing material support can carry 15-20 year sentences.Defending against terrorism charges requires extensive knowledge of complex anti-terrorism laws and classified evidence procedures. At Spodek Law Group, we have the high-level security clearances and specialized experience necessary to handle these sensitive cases.

How We Can Help

If you're under federal investigation or have been charged with a federal crime, you need an experienced defense team on your side immediately. At Spodek Law Group, we have over 50 years of combined experience defending clients against serious federal charges.Our approach includes:

• Conducting a thorough independent investigation
• Challenging the admissibility of evidence
• Negotiating with prosecutors to reduce or dismiss charges
• Developing a comprehensive trial strategy when necessary
• Fighting for reduced sentences and alternatives to incarceration

We understand how high the stakes are in federal criminal cases. That's why we fight aggressively to protect our clients' rights, freedom, and future at every stage of the process.Don't face federal charges alone. Contact Spodek Law Group today at 212-300-5196 for a free consultation with an experienced federal criminal defense attorney. We're available 24/7 to discuss your case and start building your defense.

Conclusion

Federal criminal prosecutions involve some of the most serious charges and harshest penalties in the U.S. legal system. From drug trafficking to white collar crimes to terrorism offenses, federal cases require specialized knowledge and experience to defend effectively.At Spodek Law Group, we have a proven track record of successfully defending clients against the full range of federal criminal charges. We understand the complex laws, procedures, and strategies involved in federal cases. And we have the resources and experience to take on even the most challenging prosecutions.If you're facing federal charges or under investigation, don't wait to get experienced legal help. Contact Spodek Law Group today at 212-300-5196 for a free consultation. We'll review your case, explain your options, and start building a strong defense strategy right away. With your freedom and future on the line, you can't afford to settle for anything less than the best federal criminal defense.