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Racketeering encompasses a variety of criminal activities that are carried out on behalf of an organization. The criminal activities that fall under the umbrella of racketeering can include anything from money laundering to murder. While the federal government has a variety of laws on the books to stop racketeering, states also have similar laws.
In Virginia, as is in most states, racketeering is a serious offense. Conviction under Virginia racketeering laws will result in prison time and hefty fines. A conviction will also result in the forfeiture of any real or personal property (and interest derived from that property) that was used in substantial connection with, or traceable to, racketeering activities.
It's important to read the actual language of a statute when trying to find an answer to a question about the law, but there's also a benefit to reading a summary of the statute in plain English. In the following chart you can find links to relevant statutes as well as a summary of Virginia racketeering laws.
| Statute(s) | Virginia Code Section 18.2-512, et seq. (Virginia Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organization Act) |
| Definitions | Enterprise: partnership, corporation, business trust, sole proprietorship, criminal street gang, or other group that is made up of 3 or more people "associated for the purpose of criminal activity." Racketeering Activity: commit, attempt to commit, conspire to commit, or solicit or coerce someone else to commit two or more of a variety of offenses, such as embezzlement, forgery, kidnapping, or assault. For a full list of acts that are considered racketeering activities, please see Section 18.2-513. |
| Unlawful Activities | It's unlawful for:
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| Charges and Penalties | Conviction under Virginia racketeering laws is a felony punishable by 5 to 40 years in prison and a fine of up to $1 million. Subsequent offenses are a Class 2 felony punishable by 20 years to life in prison and a fine of up to $2 million. |
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.
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Violating Virginia racketeering laws has serious consequences that will have a lasting impact on your life. If you've been charged with racketeering or any other crime in Virginia, it's in your best interest to contact a local criminal defense attorney who will be able to evaluate the evidence in your case and advocate on your behalf.
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