Michigan Wire Fraud Crimes and Federal Wire Fraud Crimes

Wire fraud is a serious crime involving using electronic communication to commit fraud. This type of crime is becoming increasingly prevalent in today’s digital age, and it is crucial to understand the difference between Michigan and federal wire fraud crimes.

Michigan Wire Fraud Crimes

You need to know about potential penalties, collateral consequences, and the importance of hiring a top criminal defense lawyer if you face wire fraud charges. In Michigan, wire fraud is a state crime punished under Michigan Penal Code section 750.218. This law prohibits using electronic communication to defraud or deceive someone out of money or property. The elements of this crime include:

Making a false representation through electronic communication;
Intent to defraud or deceive the victim;
The victim must have relied on the false representation; and
The victim must have suffered a financial loss as a result of the fraud.

Examples of wire fraud in Michigan include using emails, text messages, or other electronic communication to defraud someone out of money or property. This could include things like posing as a legitimate business to steal someone’s personal information, using false information to obtain a loan, or using electronic communication to carry out a Ponzi scheme.

Penalties for Michigan Wire Fraud

The penalties for wire fraud in Michigan can be severe. If convicted, a person could face up to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000. The punishment will depend on the specific circumstances of the case, including the amount of money involved and the number of victims.

Collateral Consequences of a Michigan Conviction

In addition to the criminal penalties, there are also collateral consequences that come with a wire fraud conviction. This includes things like:

Loss of professional license;
Ineligibility for certain jobs;
Difficulty in obtaining loans or credit; and
Reputation damage.

These consequences can have a lasting impact on a person’s life and make it difficult to move forward after a wire fraud conviction.

Federal Wire Fraud Crimes

Federal wire fraud is a federal crime punished under 18 U.S.C. § 1343. This law is similar to Michigan’s wire fraud statute but applies to wire fraud that crosses state lines or involves a federal agency. The elements of federal wire fraud include:

A scheme to defraud;
Use of electronic communication;
Intent to defraud or deceive;
The victim must have relied on the false representation; and
The victim must have suffered a financial loss as a result of the fraud.

Examples of federal wire fraud include using the internet or email to defraud someone out of money or property, using false information to obtain a loan from a federally insured bank, or using electronic communication to carry out a Ponzi scheme that involves victims from multiple states. The federal government aggressively pursues wire fraud allegations. Your best defense is with a respected, influential federal criminal defense lawyer.

Penalties for Federal Offenses

The penalties for federal wire fraud can be even more severe than those for Michigan wire fraud. If convicted, a person could face up to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000. The punishment in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Michigan (USDCEDM) will depend on the specific circumstances of the case, including the amount of money involved and the number of victims.

Collateral Consequences of Federal Wire Fraud

Just like with Michigan wire fraud, there are also collateral consequences that come with a federal wire fraud conviction. This includes things like:

Loss of professional license;
Ineligibility for certain jobs;
Difficulty in obtaining loans or credit;
Loss of firearm rights, and
Reputation damage.

These consequences can have a lasting impact on a person’s life and make it difficult to move forward after a federal wire fraud conviction.

Importance of Hiring a Top Criminal Defense Lawyer

If you are facing wire fraud charges, it is crucial to understand the severity of the consequences you could face. The right criminal defense lawyer can help you navigate the legal system and protect your rights. A top criminal defense lawyer with LEWIS & DICKSTEIN, P.L.L.C. will be able to:

Evaluate the evidence against you and determine the best defense strategy;
Ensure that your rights are protected during the legal process;
Work to negotiate a plea bargain, if appropriate, to reduce your charges and penalties;
Represent you at trial, if necessary, and argue on your behalf before a judge and jury.

Hiring a top criminal defense lawyer can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case and can help you achieve the best possible result. Wire fraud is a serious crime that can have serious consequences. It is vital to understand the difference between Michigan and federal wire fraud crimes and to take the charges against you seriously. If you are facing wire fraud charges, seek the help of a top criminal defense lawyer to protect your rights and help you achieve the best possible outcome.

Call us today at (248) 263-6800 for a free consultation or complete an online Request for Assistance Form. We will contact you promptly and find a way to help you.