Created by FindLaw's team of legal writers and editors | Last reviewed January 31, 2018
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The term racketeering may sound familiar in the context of organized crime or drug trafficking, but it is not limited to that. The crime of racketeering refers to numerous unlawful activities ("rackets," or crime rings) which demonstrate the operation of an illegal business or scheme carried out for a profit. Common examples of rackets include a "numbers racket" which is a reference to illegal gambling or a prostitution racket, but the activities can include a broad range of criminal acts such as extortion, embezzlement, robbery, kidnapping, or even murder. Although racketeering is often prosecuted on the federal level via Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations laws (RICO), many states including North Carolina have their own equivalent laws prohibiting racketeering.
The chart below provides a summary of statutes related to North Carolina's racketeering laws, including links to important code sections.
Statutes |
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Elements of the Crime |
North Carolina requires that the criminal "enterprise" engage in at least 2 incidents of racketeering activities that have the same or similar purposes, results, victims, or accomplices or are otherwise interrelated. Racketeering activity means any act or threat involving the following:
Money laundering means:
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Penalties |
Possible penalties may include the following:
The actual penalties will depend on the specific circumstances of your case, but will include factors such as your criminal history and the underlying racketeering activities. |
Related Offenses |
Note: State laws are always subject to change through the passage of new legislation, rulings in the higher courts (including federal decisions), ballot initiatives, and other means. While we strive to provide the most current information available, please consult an attorney or conduct your own legal research to verify the state law(s) you are researching.
If you've been accused of violating North Carolina's racketeering laws, then you're facing serious charges with major consequences like incarceration and costly fines. It's in your best interests to consider talking to an experienced criminal defense attorney. A local criminal defense attorney can analyze your case and can determine the best strategies toward a well planned defense.
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