3 Money Laundering Scams Texas Residents Should Be Aware of

 Posted on May 06, 2022 in Criminal Defense

Money laundering is the process of making money acquired through illegal means appear legitimate. The “dirty” money is transformed into “clean” money in the hopes of avoiding criminal culpability for the illegally obtained funds. Money laundering is a crime punishable by jail time and other serious penalties. However, some people involved in money laundering schemes are not even aware that they are committing a crime. They may believe that they are working a legitimate job or even that they received a stroke of good fortune.

Read on to learn about some of the most common money laundering scams and how people get caught up in these scams.

Fake Lottery Winnings May Be Money Mule Scams

Finding out that you won prize money in a sweepstakes or lottery is great news. Unfortunately, scammers often use fake prize money to manipulate unsuspecting victims. The victims are told that they must pay some type of shipping and handling fee or tax fee before they can collect the prize money. However, the alleged prize money is fictitious and the victims never receive it. In some fake lottery scams, the victims are even tricked into laundering profits from criminal activities by receiving money and sending it to another party.

Long-Distance Romance Scams

“Catfishing” is the act of pretending to be someone you are not for personal or financial gain. Some people become victims of a scam when they meet an individual online posing as a romantic partner. The person asks the scam victim to send them money for plane tickets or other seemingly legitimate expenses. The scammer may also send the victim money and ask them to send it elsewhere. The victim ends up participating in a money-laundering scheme without even realizing it.

Money Laundering Disguised as a Shipping Job

Scammers may post fake job ads requesting someone to receive and ship packages. The person is asked to receive goods, repackage the items, and send the items elsewhere. Unbeknownst to the shipper, he or she has just participated in a money-laundering scam involving stolen goods.

What to Do If You Are Accused of Money Laundering

Money laundering is a felony offense in Texas punishable by years behind bars and a criminal record. If you or a loved one were charged with money laundering, contact a skilled defense lawyer right away. Do not speak to the police or answer any questions until you have met with your attorney.

Contact a Pleasanton White Collar Crimes Lawyer

The Atascosa County criminal defense attorneys at BRCK Criminal Defense Attorneys have over 40 years of combined experience representing individuals accused of crimes. Call our office at 830-769-1010 for a free consultation.

Source:

https://www.monster.com/career-advice/article/money-laundering-reshipping-scams

https://statutes.capitol.texas.gov/Docs/PE/htm/PE.34.htm