White-collar crime is the name for a broad category of nonviolent crimes that are often committed in commercial environments (including online) and for the purpose of financial gain. Examples of federal and state white-collar criminal offenses include:
• antitrust violations
• bank fraud
• bankruptcy fraud
• bid rigging and price fixing
• blackmail
• bribery
• computer and internet fraud
• counterfeiting
• credit card fraud
• economic espionage and trade secret theft
• embezzlement
• environmental law violations
• extortion
• financial fraud
• government fraud
• health care fraud
• identity theft
• immigration fraud
• insider trading
• insurance fraud
• intellectual property theft
• kickbacks
• loan sharking
• mail fraud
• money laundering
• public assistance fraud (Medicare, Medicaid, Disability)
• public corruption
• racketeering
• securities fraud
• skimming (casinos)
• tax evasion
• telephone and telemarketing fraud
In Virginia, white-collar crimes encompass a variety of nonviolent offenses committed for financial gain, often in business settings. These crimes can be prosecuted under both federal and state laws. Virginia has specific statutes addressing many forms of white-collar crime, such as computer and internet fraud, embezzlement, identity theft, and credit card fraud, among others. For instance, Virginia Code Section 18.2-152.3 covers computer fraud, while Section 18.2-178 deals with obtaining money or signature by false pretense, which can include various types of financial fraud. Additionally, federal laws apply to offenses that cross state lines or involve federal agencies. Examples include securities fraud, which is governed by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), and bank fraud, which falls under the jurisdiction of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). Penalties for white-collar crimes in Virginia can range from fines and restitution to imprisonment, depending on the severity of the offense and the amount of money involved. It is important for individuals accused of such crimes to consult with an attorney who is experienced in white-collar criminal defense to navigate the complexities of these laws.