Money laundering in Texas is considered a serious crime. But what is it, and is money laundering a felony in the State of Texas?
If you or a loved one have been charged with money laundering, you need to learn about how Texas handles this crime, and contact an experienced Houston white collar crimes lawyer that can represent your best interests.
As you prepare for the first meeting with your lawyer, here are the basics about money laundering, jail time, fines and more.
What Is Money Laundering in Texas?
Money laundering can take a few different forms, but it always involves money that was made from illegal activities. If you knowingly concealed, transported, invested or spent money that was made in an illegal way, you participated in money laundering.
For example, if someone makes a lot of money selling illegal drugs, they need a way to spend that money without arousing suspicion. One way to clean that money is by setting up a shell company. A shell company looks like a legitimate business but doesn’t perform any services or sell any products. Instead, the business owner creates the illusion that the money made from selling drugs was made through the services of the shell company.
If you have been accused of drug trafficking or money laundering, you will need the services of experienced Houston federal drug trafficking lawyer Seth Kretzer. You could be facing time in jail and steep fines if convicted.
Is Money Laundering a Felony?
Is money laundering a felony? Yes. Though the typical money laundering Texas penalty depends on how much money you’re accused of laundering, this crime is always a felony.
According to the Texas penal code, money laundering also falls into the category of white-collar crime, which is a type of crime that involves deceit and is driven by the desire for financial gain.
How Much Jail Time for Money Laundering in Texas?
So, how many years do you get for money laundering in the State of Texas?
When it comes to money laundering jail time, Texas penal code requirements state that your punishment depends on how much money is involved.
- If you’re accused of laundering $1,500 to $20,000, you could get 180 days to 2 years in jail, with fines up to $10,000.
- If you allegedly laundered $20,000 to $100,000, this is a third-degree felony that comes with anywhere from 2 to 10 years in prison and a $10,000 fine.
- If you have been accused of laundering $100,000 to $200,000, this is a second-degree felony with 2 to 20 years in prison and a $10,000 fine.
- If you are accused of laundering over $100,000, it’s a first-degree felony according to Texas penal code. Money laundering of this kind
often comes with a $10,000 fine and 5 to 99 years in prison.
In summary, the money laundering jail time in Texas depends on the amount of money you’re accused of laundering.
Get Representation to Battle Money Laundering Jail Time
For the best possible outcome as you face charges of money laundering in Texas, hire a Houston federal criminal defense lawyer who can go over your rights and your options regarding your case.
Contact the Law Offices of Seth Kretzer today for a free consultation.
