Massachusetts federal wire fraud lawyer

To establish wire fraud, federal prosecutors generally must prove that there was a scheme to defraud, that the defendant acted with fraudulent intent, and that interstate or foreign wire communications were used to further the scheme. The electronic communication itself does not necessarily need to contain the fraudulent statement. Instead, it generally must be connected to or used in furtherance of the alleged fraudulent scheme. Because electronic communications routinely cross state lines, conduct that may appear local can potentially become the subject of a federal wire fraud investigation.

A conviction for federal wire fraud in Massachusetts can result in serious penalties. Under 18 U.S.C. § 1343, a standard wire fraud offense carries a maximum sentence of up to 20 years in federal prison, in addition to potential fines and other consequences. If the offense affects a financial institution or involves certain benefits connected to a presidentially declared major disaster or emergency, the maximum sentence can increase to 30 years and include a fine of up to \$1 million. The actual sentence depends on the circumstances of the case, including the nature and scope of the alleged fraud and applicable federal sentencing rules.

Where federal wire fraud charges are prosecuted in Massachusetts

Federal wire fraud crimes in Massachusetts are prosecuted in the federal court system through the U.S. District Court for the District of Massachusetts. Boston is a major court location for the District of Massachusetts, which has jurisdiction over federal cases arising throughout the state. The District of Massachusetts falls within the jurisdiction of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the First Circuit. The specific court location where a federal wire fraud case is prosecuted generally depends on where the alleged criminal conduct occurred and the division responsible for that area.