Money laundering is a serious federal crime and a felony in Minnesota. It is when an organized criminal entity obtains large sums of money illegally and then launders it before integrating it into the financial system. Money laundering can happen in different industries, using varying methods of placement and layering. You might not even realize you were involved in the criminal activity. If you are under investigation for suspected money laundering, you should prepare to build a solid defense.
Lack of knowledge and intent
To be guilty of a crime, the defendant must have knowingly and willfully committed the act. You might even be a victim. The real criminals could have used your accounts and name to siphon the dirty money. You did not know the perpetrators acquired the funds through illegal activities. Because you were not aware, you had no intention of committing the crime in the first place.
Entrapment
A law enforcement officer may have induced or persuaded you to commit the act. Entrapment occurs when an undercover agent or law enforcement officer introduces the crime to an innocent party and encourages them to do it.
The Fourth Amendment defense
The Fourth Amendment protects every United States citizen from unreasonable search and seizure. The prosecution may not use evidence if they obtained it through violating your constitutional rights.
Lack of material evidence
In any criminal lawsuit, the prosecution carries the burden of proving that the defendant committed the crime beyond a reasonable doubt. Circumstantial evidence is not enough to convict a person of a crime.
You must not take money laundering accusations lightly. A conviction could change your life forever. You must try everything you can to defend yourself against these unfair allegations.