Are you under investigation for a white collar crime? Oregon Criminal Defense Attorney Michael Romano can help. We represent employees, employers, businesses, and individuals throughout the state who are under criminal investigation or charged with white collar crimes.
White Collar Crime Defined in Oregon
The phrase “white-collar crime” typically refers to financially-motivated non-violent crime committed by business and government professionals. Examples include:
- Theft and Money Laundering
- Business Theft and Embezzlement
- Computer Crime
- Intellectual Property Theft
- Identity Theft
- Racketeering
- Elder Fraud
- Home Repair and Construction Fraud
- Corporate Crime
- Insurance Fraud
- Other Organized Transnational Crimes
- Bank Fraud, Credit Card Fraud, and also Mortgage Fraud
- Securities Violations
- Environmental Compliance
- Tax Fraud
- Bribery and also Public Corruption
- Mail and Wire fraud
- Official Misconduct
Who Investigates White-Collar Crime in Oregon?
Because of the broad definition for police jurisdiction in Oregon, any law enforcement agency in Oregon can investigate white collar crime. The Oregon State Police and Oregon Attorney General’s Office often investigate state cases. In addition, the Portland Police Bureau actually has a dedicated White Collar Crime Unit for local white collar crime. In addition, many white collar crimes carry into other states. Therefore, the FBI has a White Collar Crime Unit. Due to the nature of these crimes, they can often cross jurisdictions. For example, a crime can span more than one city or county. In addition, white collar crimes can violate both state and federal criminal statutes.
White Collar Criminal Defenses
People accused of white collar crimes in Oregon typically don’t have any prior criminal record. They are often experiencing financial difficulties, stressful circumstances, employer pressure, or addictions. Therefore, many times the charges can be reduced or dismissed. For example, criminal charges can be dismissed based upon an agreement with the complaining party or victim in a process known as civil compromise. In other cases, a reduced sentence in return for restitution or completion of a treatment program may be available. It goes without saying that alternatives to incarceration are always preferred– including community service, work release, or house arrest.
If you are under investigation for white collar crime or if you’ve been charged, contact a criminal defense attorney immediately. First of all, there may be ways to mitigate any suspected criminal activity previously committed. Also, you’re going to want legal advice and direction going forward. These cases are complex, and the consequences of a conviction are often vary serious. Therefore, you’re going to want a strong attention to detail on the case.